Godwin – Artistic Photographer
Troutman Block, Butler, Pennsylvania
The ornate back design featuring intertwined initials and flowing Art Nouveau ornamentation is typical of high-quality regional studios around 1900.
Ethnography
Notes
This is a formal studio bust portrait of an elderly gentleman shown in three-quarter view. His features include:
Closely trimmed hair brushed upward at the front
Long, full white beard extending well below the collar
Prominent ears and deeply set eyes
Calm, composed expression
His clothing reflects late Victorian to early Edwardian transitional menswear:
Dark sack coat or early lounge coat
Subtle plaid or checked fabric pattern
High stiff collar
Narrow, vertically striped tie
No visible waistcoat chain (suggesting a simpler, later 1890s-early 1900s aesthetic)
The styling suggests a man of respectable middle-class standing, likely a merchant, professional, or established farmer.
Condition
Overall Condition
Good
Date Examined
Feb 14, 2026
Notes
Front:
Overall good clarity
Mild surface spotting and age toning
Even fading consistent with natural albumen aging
Back:
Decorative printed advertisement
Mild foxing (orange spotting)
No major structural damage visible
General Notes
Note Type
Description
Note
Studio cabinet card portrait of a distinguished older man with full white beard, wearing a checked sack coat and high collar. The mount’s ornate Art Nouveau backmark and “Extra Finish” designation indicate a premium late Victorian studio product from Butler, PA.
