Thank you for viewing this wonderful gentlemen! There has been much debate as to his origins, with some excellent discussions around his origin.

This original 1/6 plate daguerreotype has a small tag "Collins, Artist" identifying it as the work of brothers Thomas Painter Collins and David C. Collins of Philadelphia. He was a rather prolific artist as many images exist bearing his “Sky Light Rooms” imprint and/or paper label on the mat. 

The image depicts a young officer of the Mexican War through Civil War period. The tunic has an elaborate six button collar, double row of hand painted gold buttons, epaulets and cording, elaborate plumed helmet with a large trumpet plate and is housed in a gutta percha hinged case with label from Littlefield, Parsons & Co. Manufacturers of Daguerreotype Cases. It measures 3.35" by 3.75". The front of case has U.S. flag, eagle, mortar, cannonballs, shield, ship, fortress, stars and law book.

In spite of the antiquated style of uniform, this daguerreotype is thought to date from the late 1850s. He is a militia officer of a unit designated as a “rifle” or “mounted rifle” company/regiment. “Infantry” more or less. This supposition is drawn from the type/orientation of the horn insignia on the helmet plate. Possibly aiguillettes as part of the uniform, but keep in mind that the enlisted and officer versions of the Model 1833 Dragoon helmet employed these cords in both worsted wool and bullion versions. This is a militia shako employing that feature which strongly implies a “mounted rifle” unit. The helmet cord’s purpose was decorative as well as functional. Attaching the cords to the tunic precluded loss of the helmet in the melee of mounted combat. Again, this image dates to 1858-1860 in spite of the fact that he is wearing a uniform that is of a style reminiscent of the 1830s-1840s. He is a militia officer and their uniforms were typically 20 years or more behind the Regular establishment.

The image is good for its age with losses as seen in photos.

This will be shipped priority with insurance.

Please reach out with questions.