Infant Seated on Wicker Chair — Oval Studio Portrait

Photograph

-

The Recorded Image Project

Name/Title

Infant Seated on Wicker Chair — Oval Studio Portrait

Entry/Object ID

RE-PH-2026-0101

Description

Oval studio portrait of an infant seated on a wicker chair, wearing a white dress.

Photograph Details

Type of Photograph

Gelatin Print - silver bromide

Category

baby

Made/Created

Studio

Unknown

Date made

circa 1898 - circa 1908

Time Period

20th Century, 19th Century

Notes

Although the photographer is unidentified, the portrait exhibits characteristics common to professional American studios at the turn of the twentieth century. Wicker furniture and fur textiles were popular studio props used to add texture and visual richness while keeping infants safely supported during long exposure times. The oval mat presentation and dark mount board reflect lingering Victorian design preferences even as photographic materials and mounting styles transitioned into the Edwardian era. Such portraits were often commissioned to mark early childhood milestones and to create keepsakes for extended family members.

Ethnography

Notes

American; turn-of-the-century infant portraiture reflecting family documentation practices and period studio prop traditions.

Condition

Overall Condition

Good

Date Examined

Mar 8, 2026

Notes

• Mount shows edge wear and minor corner softening • Light surface foxing and small tonal spots • Slight fading consistent with age • Oval mat intact with no major tears • Image remains clear with soft tonal range

General Notes

Note Type

Historical Note

Note

Infant portraiture around the turn of the twentieth century balanced sentimentality with technical practicality. Long exposure times required stable posing aids, leading studios to incorporate furniture and textile supports. White garments symbolized innocence and were common for both boys and girls before more gender-specific clothing became widespread. Oval framing techniques reflected Victorian aesthetic traditions that softened compositions and gave portraits a cameo-like appearance.

Create Date

March 9, 2026