Memorial cabinet card and original sitting view

These images with mourning flowers and a recently made photograph of the departed loved one were a popular subject matter in 19th century photography. They are a popular collectible image and their availability makes them a much more affordable option than post- mortem views.

This SET of images is unusual in that a view from the original sitting was retained with the memorial view.

The original image (photo #3) is by Walter of Manchester, Iowa and shows a black border, while the memorial view is by Douglas of Coggon, Iowa. Coggon is about 18 miles South of Manchester and probably reflects a family move at some point.

Interestingly, the Walter view is NOT the exact view used in the memorial. A close up shows that there is separation between the image and "Walter" on the mount in the memorial view. In my view "Walter" is partially covered by the image.

Typically cabinet cards were sold by the half dozen or dozen, so it isn't unusual to find slight differences in cards from the same sitting.

Reproduction of these images in any form is prohibited.