Vintage photo little girl tennis racket, 19th century retro portrait, curiosities cabinet

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This old photograph shows a portrait of a little girl, taken in a studio according to 19th-century codes, typical of the aesthetic of "cabinet of curiosities" portraits. The young girl is seated on what appears to be a rocky set, wearing a dark, long-sleeved dress with a high collar and pleated details, evoking late 19th-century children's fashion. She holds a racket with visible strings on her lap, probably intended for real tennis or a popular racket sport at the time, which gives the image both a sporty and bourgeois dimension.

The black and white or sepia shot shows great clarity of features and textile details. The little girl's hair is pulled back, with curls on her forehead, accentuating the sober elegance of the portrait. The background is neutral, without ostentatious decor, highlighting the subject and the sports accessory, which is characteristic of 19th-century studio photographs.

The photograph is in card format, with straight edges and an old silver print. No inscription, signature or date is visible on the displayed side. The general condition of the print shows slight signs of age (small stains, patina, slightly blunted corners) but retains good legibility and consistent contrast.

The piece is displayed on a natural support, surrounded by flowers and greenery, which is not original but allows the format and presence of the image to be appreciated in a decorative context. This type of photograph is sought after for retro decoration or atmospheric compositions inspired by cabinets of curiosities, due to its authenticity and timeless style.

This photograph fits perfectly into a collection of old portraits, sports iconography or period curiosities. It constitutes a valuable visual testimony to bourgeois childhood and feminine leisure activities at the end of the 19th century.

Condition

Second-hand item, sold as is. Shows normal signs of age, patina and slightly worn corners. The surface retains good sharpness. See photo for precise condition.

Did you know? The "cabinet" photograph (or cabinet card) is a standardized format that appeared around 1866, very popular until the early 20th century, used for studio portraits. It was often mounted on rigid cardboard, making it easy to display in living rooms or private cabinets.

AFW Reassurance

Careful and fast shipping from France, with professional packaging adapted to antique photographs. Professional seller specializing in vintage and historical objects.

Keywords: old photo, 19th century child portrait, cabinet card, retro photography, cabinet of curiosities atmosphere, vintage print, old studio photo, retro decor, old girl photo, photo curiosity, vintage photograph, antique cabinet photo