Tag Archives: Portrait Painter

William Willard

Colorist, Portrait Painter, , ,

Ca. 1855          Address Unknown, Boston, Massachusetts

1855                Pennsylvania Avenue, between 4½ and 6th Streets, Washington, D. C.

1856                5½ Tremont Row, Boston, Massachusetts.

William Willard was recorded in two announcements in the Evening Star (Washington, D. C. and one entry from The New York Historical Society’s Dictionary Of Artist In America 1564-1860.  The first announcement appeared on December 18, 1855.  Henry Willard, a Boston artist of great merit, has taken a studio in the same building with Whitehurst’s Daguerreotype establishment, where he is painting the portraits of several of our distinguished men.

The second announcement appeared on December 22.  Fine Arts.—Visiting several studios this morning, we found the artists busy at their easels, apparently well content with the patronage they are receiving from an appreciating public…  Henry Willard, in the building with Vannerson, was at work on a portrait, in oils, of the Hon. Mr. De Witt, of Mass….

The entry appeared in The New York Historical Society’s Dictionary Of Artist In America 1564-1860.  Willard, William (1819-1904)  Portrait painter; born March 24, 1819 at Sturbridge (Mass.)  died there November 1, 1904.  He was active in Boston during the 1850’s and exhibited at the Athenaeum Gallery.  The American Antiquarian Society owns his self-portrait and his portraits of Charles Sumner, Daniel Webster, and George Frisbie Hoar.  He also painted a panorama of Boston from Bunker Hill.  Weis Checklist of Portraits; Boston CD 1851-60; Swan, BA; Boston Evening Transcript, May 2, 1849 (courtesy of J. Earl Arrington).

William Willard is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.  It is unknown if He was Associated with Southworth and Hawes or if he had a artist studio in the same building.

Samuel Raymond Fanshaw

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, , , , , , , , , ,

1843                235 Broadway, New York New York.

1850                247 Broadway, New York, New York.

Samuel Raymond Fanshaw was recorded in eight advertisements and two announcements, in the New York Herald and New York Tribune.  He was an miniature painter & artist according to the New York City Directory, and a miniature & portrait painter according to an entry in The New York Historical Society’s Dictionary of Artists in America 1564-1860. The advertisements and announcements show him in the partnerships of Fanshaw, Young & Cunningham; Fanshaw & Hite and Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.  The city directories only list him as an artist and not in a partnership.

The first advertisement ran every other day from May 25 to 29, and every day from June 4 to 6, 1843 in The New York Herald.  Miniature Portraits copied from Daguerreotypes in natural colors on ivory, with perfect accuracy, or with any desired alteration or improvement on very moderate terms.  Specimens to be seen in the Daguerreotype Room, No. 1, at 235 Broadway, near park place.

The first announcement appeared on September 19,1843 in the New York Daily Tribune.  Fair at the American Museum.—The problem of opening a new and spacious Saloon at the American Museum, as a Perpetual Fair or Bazaar for the Exhibition and Sale of Goods, Wares, Merchandize, &c has proved highly successful.  It is now one of the most attractive Halls in the Establishment, and is undoubtedly the cheapest Advertising Medium in the world.  The name, location and business of all depositors are advertised in 100,000 small bills per annum—also in the principal city papers.  The following persons have already made deposits in this Fair, and as nearly all the articles are For Sale, Merchants and others will find it to their interest to make their purchases through this medium.  It is obvious that no articles but those of the best quality are deposited here.  Persons desirous of depositing specimens of Goods or Cards of Business in the perpetual Fair, can do so on reasonable terms.  Circulars of prices, & c. can be obtained at the Office of the Museum.

Daguerreotype Miniatures…..N. G. Burgess, 192 Broadway

Daguerreotype Miniatures…..J. Gurney, 189 Broadway

Daguerreotype Miniatures…..J. Plumbe, Jr., 251 Broadway

Daguerreotype Miniatures…..Fanshaw, Young & Cunningham, 235 Broadway

The second announcement appeared on June 18, 1850 in the New York Herald.  Fine Arts.—Samuel R. Fanshaw & George H. Hite, miniature and portrait painters, have associated with W. & F. Langenheim, the celebrated Daguerreotype and Talbotype artist of Philadelphia, and purchased the splendid National Miniature Gallery, established by Edwards, Anthony & Clark, 247 Broadway, corner Murray street, where they will superintend the sittings for Daguerreotypes.  Their Talbotype miniatures and portraits, which are taken upon ivory, ivory-paper, etc., may be seen in the above gallery.  There is but one prevailing opinion, that they possess all the truthfulness of a good Daguerreotype, with all the artistic merit that has characterized the former highly finished miniatures of those artists.  For further evidence; please call and see them.

The second advertisement ran from June 27 to 28, 1850 in the New York Herald.  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes and Daguerreotypes.—The subscribers having purchased the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, (late E. White’s) are prepared to take Talbotype Portraits of all sizes, up to the size of life.  The fidelity of likeness, and the beautiful finish of these pictures, gain them greater popularity every day.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most approved style.  The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at our establishment, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The third advertisement ran from July 3 to 6, 1850 in the New York Herald.  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes and Daguerreotypes.—The subscribers having purchased the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, (late E. White’s) are prepared to take Talbotype Portraits of all sizes, up to the size of life.  The fidelity of likeness, and the beautiful finish of these pictures, gain them greater popularity every day.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most approved style.  The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at our establishment, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The fourth advertisement appeared on July 10, 1850 in the New York Herald.  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory and ivory paper, are daily taken in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life, at the National Miniature Gallery.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most artistical style.  The public are invited to examine specimens at 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The fifth advertisement ran from July 14 to 17, 1850 in the New York Herald.  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory and ivory paper, are daily taken in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life, at the National Miniature Gallery.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most artistical style.  The public are invited to examine specimens at 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The sixth advertisement ran on July 16 & 20, 1850 in the New York Daily Tribune.  Fine Arts—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory, Ivory Paper and Glass, and Daguerreotypes, are daily taken by the subscribers in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life.  The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.                                                        

The seventh advertisement ran on July 18 to 19, 1850 in the New York Herald.  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory and ivory paper and glass, and daguerreotypes are daily taken by the subscribers, in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life. The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The eighth advertisement appeared on August 29, 1850 in the New York Daily Tribune.  To Artists.—An artists who understands Miniature Portrait Painting in oil and water colors, and who can give proof of his talents, can find employment at the National Miniature Gallery, No. 247 Broadway.  None but competent persons need apply.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.                                                                                  

Samuel R. Fanshaw is recorded in the New York City Directories.

1840/1841 & 1841/1842—Miniature painter, 1 Cortlandt, H- 280 Henry.

1842/1843 to 1844/1845—Artist, 1 Cortlandt, H-249 Seventh.

1845/1846—Artist, 1 Cortlandt, H-[ ? ] Ave C & 11th.

1846/1847-1847/1848—Artist, 25 Maiden Lane & 1 Cortlandt, H-249 Seventh.

1848/1849—Artist, 1 Cortlandt, H-249 Seventh.

1849/1850—Artist, 1 Cortlandt, H-Winchester.

1850/1851—Artist, 247 Broadway, B-Winchester.

1851/1852 to 1855/1856—Artist, 363 Broadway, H-Conn. (1854/1855) Norwalk.

1856/1857 & 1857/1858—Painter, 363 Broadway, H-Conn.

1858/1859—Not listed.

1859/1860—Artist, 381 Broadway, H-Hamilton Ave., near Gates Ave., Brooklyn.

Samuel R. Fanshaw is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry, but is misidentified as Thomas Fanshaw.  From 1851 to 1857 the 363 Address is the same as Samuel Root’s it is possible that Fanshaw is working for Root.  At this time it is only speculation about the connection.  

John Wood Dodge

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, , , , , , , , ,

1855                Address Unknown, St. Louis, Missouri

1855-1857       Rooms over Hicks’ China Hall, Nashville, Tennessee.

1858                Address Unknown, Nashville, Tennessee.

John Wood Dodge, miniature portrait painter, daguerreotypist & farmer.  In the partnership of Dodge & Wenderoth and J. W. & E. S. Dodge was recorded in one announcement in The Daily Nashville True Whig and in eleven announcements and two advertisements in the Nashville Union and American.  The announcement in The Daily Nashville True Whig (Nashville, Tennessee) appeared on September 29, 1855.  Photographic Miniature Portraits.—Art has achieved a signal triumph in the Introduction of crystalotype likenesses.  In the hands of competent artists, Photography is destined to supersede miniature painting on ivory altogether.  The process is simple and sure.  The likeness is first daguerreotyped on glass, and then transferred to a very fine paper, prepared especially for the purpose.  They are then colored to the life.  The likenesses thus taken has all the accuracy of a daguerreotype, and all the beauty and finish of a painting.  They are much larger than the ordinary miniature, and can be furnished at about one-fourth the cost of the latter.  We noticed that our old friend, J. W. Dodge, formerly of this city, and whose skill as a miniature painter is well known here, has been for some taking likenesses upon this plan.  He is associated with Mr. Augustus Wenderoth, one of the finest artist in the Country.  We have before us a highly complimentary notice of their pictures from the St. Louis Republican.

We are pleased to learn that Messrs. Dodge & Wenderoth will be in this city early October, and will open rooms for a short stay.—With the high reputation which Mr. D. enjoys here, and the acknowledge talent of his associate, there can be no doubt that they will find a lucrative patronage ready for them.

The first announcement in the Nashville Union and American (Nashville, Tennessee) appeared on December 23, 1855.  The Fine Arts—Photographic Miniature Portraits.—We take pleasure in calling the attention of our readers to the card of Messrs. Dodge & Wenderoth in this morning’s paper.  Mr. Dodge is well known in this community as an artist who has no superior in this country in his peculiar department—miniatures on Ivory.  Hundreds of his pictures are in the possession of persons in Nashville alone—and whoever has the likeness of a valued friend from his pencil has a “thing of beauty” which will certainly be “a joy forever.”  Mr. D. has associated with him Mr. Wenderoth, an artist of the highest accomplishment, as an examination of some of his specimens will abundantly satisfy anyone.  Together they will not only furnish our citizens with those inimitable miniatures on ivory—celebrated wherever known—but what will prove, we believe, even more acceptable, are to furnish Photographic Miniature Portraits—a style of picture which is destined to a very great extent to supersede all others.  They present at once the faithfulness and accuracy of the daguerreotype, together with the beauty, finish, naturalness and ease of an oil painting—which they in reality are, more than any thing else.  The photographic process transfers to paper the form and feature with unmistakable accuracy in the minutest particulars, while the delicate touch of the artist’s pencil—a pencil already famous even without this aid—brings out in bold and striking relief a counterfeit presentment of the subject, perfect almost beyond credulity.—This photographic process enables the artist to enlarge the size of their pictures, and to prepare them with less labor, as well as more accuracy, and consequently at a reduced cost.  We advise those of our readers who are fond of the beautiful in art, after giving the card of Messrs. Dodge & Wenderoth a reading, to call and examine some of their specimens, of which they have a few.  We can guarantee to the most matter-of-fact individual that he will find something in them to excite emotions of pleasure, and that he will at once resolve to have himself or some friend “done up” in their inimitable style.

The first advertisement ran from December 23, 1855 to March 26, 1856.  To The Public.  A Card.  The undersigned would respectfully announce to his friends and the citizens of Nashville and vicinity, that he has returned to the city for the purpose of pursuing his profession, and that he has associated with him the talented Artist, Mr. F. Augustus Wenderoth, and he feels assured, from their success in another State, that their efforts in their profession cannot fail to be received with favor by the lovers of Art in Tennessee.  Nashville, Dec. 23d, 1855.  John W. Dodge.

The Fine Arts—Photographic Miniature Portraits.  Messrs. Dodge & Wenderoth would make known to the citizens generally, that they have taken Rooms over “Hicks’ China Hall,” North side of the Public Square, and are now prepared to execute (in addition to Miniatures on Ivory) the new Photographic Miniature Portraits.  These pictures are from Locket to Cabinet size, forming handsome ornaments for the Palor.  They possess the faithfulness of the mirror with the expression and coloring of life, and are Perfectly Permanent.

Painted Photographic copies of various sizes, taken of Daguerreotypes, when accompanied with a description of the complexion, color of the eyes, hair, dress, &c.  Specimens of the different styles, painted and plain, can be examine at their Studio.  dec.28.

The second announcement appeared on February 15, 1856.  Photographs Of The Legislature.—Messrs. Dodge & Wenderoth, the distinguished artists, will take a Photographic view of the interior of the House of Representatives, with the members (and we presume their lady friends in the gallery,) this morning at 10 o’clock, if the day proves a favorable one.  If the day should be unfavorable, the picture will be taken on the first bright day following, at the same hour.  The interior of the Senate chamber will be taken on the day after that of the House, at the same hour, if the weather is fair.

The third announcement appeared on February 16, 1856.  Interior View Of The Hall.  Mr. Parks submitted a resolution which had just been put into his hands, inviting Messrs. Dodge & Wenderoth, Photographic Artists, (conformably to their application,) to take a Photographic Miniature of the House of Representatives at any time it may suit their convenience, and requesting the Door-keepers to extend to them the necessary freedom of the Hall and facilities for that object: and he moved that the rule be suspended for its consideration.

And, accordingly, the rule was suspended, and the resolution was adopted….The Speaker read to the House a communication from Dodge, the Photographic Artists, stating that he would be prepared to take his interior view of the Hall to morrow (Friday) morning at 10 o’clock, if it should be a fair day; and, if not, on the first fair day following, at the same hour….

The fourth announcement appeared on May 16, 1856.  Photographic Miniature Portraits.  The studio of our friends, Messrs. Dodge & Wenderoth, over Hicks’ China Hall, north side of the square, has become the very general resort of that large class of our citizens of both sexes so justly celebrated for their high appreciation and liberal patronage of every thing truly excellent in the fine arts.  The reputation of Nr, Dodge alone as a miniature painter on ivory, in this city, where he has been so long and so favorably known, is of itself sufficient to attract all connoisseurs.  But there are other no less important features connected with his studio.  The introduction of the new style of pictures, known as Photographic Miniature Portraits, proves a most successful card.  These pictures, when painted, possess all the beauty of the ivory miniature, and, in addition, all the accurateness of outline and feature of the daguerreotype.  Besides they have the advantage in point of size, and are less expense in proportion.  Mr. Wenderoth is himself one of the most accomplished miniature painters in the country, as the specimens of his workmanship abundantly prove.  In the art of Photographing he is entirely au fait, and with his superior apparatus can exhibit pictures equal, if not superior, to any ever taken in this or any other country.

Mr. Dodge has recently returned from a visit to his family in the mountains, and is prepared, in connection with Mr. W., to attend to all orders.  Photographic Miniature Portraits can be readily taken from Daguerreotypes or Portraits.  We recommend those who wish to see something really superior to visit the studio of Dodge & Wenderoth.

The fifth announcement appeared on August 2, 1856.  Bank of Tennessee—Counter Notice.—We saw yesterday some specimens, of a new issue of the Bank of Tennessee, of the denomination of ten dollars, issued in lieu of their red brick tens, which have been withdrawn.  These notes are payable at the counter of the Bank here, and are being put in circulation in this city.  As specimens of Bank note engraving, they are equal, if not superior to any thing we have ever seen.  The face of the bill in on a yellow ground, and presents fine miniatures of Jackson, Polk, and Hon. Cave Johnson, President—the first two taken from J. W. Dodge’s Ivory Miniatures, and the latter from a Photographic Miniature by Dodge & Wenderoth….

The sixth announcement appeared on October 18, 1856.  State Fair.  Premiums….Report.  Agricultural And Miscellaneous…Display of Apples.

J. W. Dodge, Cumberland county, prem.  Pronounced the finest ever seen by all.

The seventh announcement appeared on October 22, 1856.  Sale of Fine Fruit.—Mr. Dodge premium apples will be sold at auction, at Odd Fellows’ Hall to-night at 8 o’clock.  Those, therefore, who desire a dish of that delicious fruit, will, of course, attend.

The eighth announcement appeared on November 15, 1856.  Cumberland Mountain—Fine Fruit And Vegetables. 

The extraordinary agricultural resources of the extensive table land of the Cumberland mountains are attracting considerable attention of late…

We are led to these remarks by the very gratifying circumstance of receiving from the hands of our clever artist friend, J. W. Dodge, Esq., a basket of those magnificent apples from his orchard on Cumberland mountain, in Cumberland county.  A case of these apples was exhibited at the late State Agricultural Fair in this city, and attracted universal attention.  We heard gentlemen who had attended Fairs in the oldest States in the Union, where there were contributions from the best fruit growing regions, say that they had never seen anything to compare with these apples.  At the conclusion of the Fair, Mr. Dodge sold his apples at auction, and some of the finest specimens brought as high as ten dollars and forty cents per dozen!—the best sale of apples on record.  As to the quality of this fruit, we assert, unhesitatingly, that it is superior to any we ever tasted.  Mr. Dodge has on his mountain farm some twenty or thirty of the best varieties, all thriving in the most remarkable degree….

In addition to the apples we are under obligations to Mr. Dodge for a specimen of the Irish Potatoes grown on the mountain.  They are of the red meshannock variety, and as fine specimens of Irish potato as we have ever saw. …

Mr. Dodge has several barrels of these apples for sale, and those wishing to enjoy something particularly luxurious in the way of fruit, will be accommodated by calling at his studio, over Hicks’s China store….Mr. D. has been for twenty years more or less on the mountain, and is familiar with its beauties, resources and attractions generally, and next to painting a good picture, delights in expatiating upon them.

The ninth announcement appeared on December 28, 1856.  Cumberland Mountain Land at Auction.  Valuable Stock Farm. 

I will offer at public sale, on Saturday, the 19tgh day of January, a beautiful and valuable tract of land, lying on the table of the Cumberland Mountain, in Cumberland county, about 26 miles East of Sparta, on the road to Knoxville.  This Land is a part of the tract upon which I reside and immediately adjoining my celebrated Fruit Orchard.—It contains about 1200 acres…A plat of the land can be seen at my Painting Rooms, over Hicks’s China Hall on the Square…

The tenth announcement appeared on October 26, 1856.  Mechanics’ Institute.  Second Annual Exhibition.  Premiums Awarded…Class No. 6—Marble Work, Paintings, Drawing, Daguerreotypes, Etc.

J. W. & E. S. Dodge, Nashville, Miniatures on Ivory…………………….      5

J. W. & E. S. Dodge, Nashville, Photographs, plain and colored…….…..         5

A. Larcomb, Nashville, Ambrotypes……………………………….…….      5

Hughes Brothers, Nashville, Daguerreotypes………………………….…  5

The second advertisement ran from April 14 to May 9, 1857.  A Card Having sold my Photographic rooms, apparatus, materials, &c., to Messrs. Hughes Brothers of this city, with a view to reside permanently at my home in Cumberland County, I take great pleasure in recommending them as my successors.  They are gentlemen of skill and experience in their profession, and I trust they may receive that full and liberal share of business which has ever flowed upon me.

The Messrs. Hughes have engaged a corps of artists of superior abilities, and I have no hesitation in saying that they are fully qualified, in their several departments, to give perfect satisfaction to all who may desire the finest Photographs, either plain or elaborately painted.  J. W. Dodge. 

Hughes Bros., (Successors to J. W. Dodge,) No. 46 Public Square, Nashville.  Photographs Either Plain or Colored, from the smallest in a Pin to Life Size on Canvass.

This is a new feature not heretofore attempted in Tennessee.  Our patrons can now have old Daguerreotypes of deceased friends copied as large as life, and color returned by describing the complexion, color of the hair, eyes, dress, &c.  The public are respectfully invited to call at the Gallery and see specimens, over Hicks’ China Hall, Public Square, Nashville.  P. B. & G.  [sic.]  F. H. & C. C.  

The eleventh announcement appeared on May 8, 1858.  Spring Fair.  Third Day, May 6th….Fine Arts.

Color Photographs—Mrs. W. G. Harding, (by Dodge) premium; C. C. Hughes, Certificate.

Ambrotypes—C. C. Hughes, Premium.

Uncolored Photographs— C. C. Hughes, Premium.

John Wood Dodge is not recorded in other photographic directories.  Pioneer Photographers from the Mississippi to the Continental Divide A Biographical Dictionary 1839-1865, does record him as a dioramist and miniaturist active in New York City 1830-44; New Orleans 1848-1849; and Huntsville, Ala in 1854.  Current research suggest that while in St. Louis in (1854-1855) he colored photographs for Enoch Long.  Illegible advertisement in the Daily Missouri Republican dated May 30, 1855.

Ambrose Andrews

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, , , ,

1852-1853       122 Canal, New York, New York.

Ambrose Andrews was listed or not listed in the New York City Directories, Vose Archives, and The New York Historical Society’s Dictionary Of Artists in America 1564-1860.  The first directory I looked at was the1849-1850 Doggett’s New York City Directory where Ambrose Andrews, is listed as a Portrait Painter, at 25 Lispenard.

The second was the 1850-1851 Doggett’s New York City Directory.  Where he was not listed in directory.

The third directory was the 1851-1852 Doggett’s & Rode New York City Directory where he is listed as an artist, at 122 Canal.

The fourth directory was the 1852-1853 Wilson & Trow New York City Directory where he is listed as a daguerreotypes, at 122 Canal.

The fifth directory was the 1853-1854 Wilson & Trow New York City Directory where he is listed as a daguerreotypes, at 122 Canal.

The sixth directory was the 1854-1855 Wilson & Trow New York City Directory where he was not listed in directory.

The Vose Archives, Boston, Massachusetts was at the time an unpublished database that Seth Vose shared with me in 1994.

Andrews, Ambrose (born West Stockbridge, MA 19 July 1801—died probably E. Palmyra, NY ca 1877).

Subject:  portrait, miniature, landscape. 

Media:  oil, water color.

Studied:  American Acad. of Fine Arts, NYC Oct-Nov. 1824, New York Drawing Assoc. NYC 1825; NAD, NYC 1826.

Worked:  West Stockbridge, Ma c. 1820-25, c 1833-36; Schuylerville, NY 1824; NYC 1825-26; 1848-62; Pa. 1827; Troy, NY 1829-31; Middletown, CT 1835; New Haven, CT 1837; Houston, TX 1837-41; New Orleans, LA 1841-42, 1844; Cincinnati, OH 1843; St. Louis, MO 1844-48; E. Palmyra, NY 1869-c 1877.

Active:  1824-c. 1877

Comments…In NYC during 1850’s did daguerreotyping and colored photographs.

Ambrose Andrews is not recorded in other photographic directories.

A. Schuster

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, , ,

1853                494 Broadway, New York, New York.

A. Schuster was recorded in one advertisement on December 4, 1853 in The New York Herald  (New York, New York).  Portraits In Pastel And Miniature, After nature, and daguerreotypes executed, and perfect resemblances warranted, by A. Schuster, Portrait Painter, 494 Broadway, Specimens ready for show at his studio.

A. Schuster is not recorded in other photographic directories.  Arnauld Schuster or Shuster is listed in The New-York Historical Society’s Dictionary of Artist In America 1584-1860.  Portrait painter at NYC in 1852, formerly a student at the Munich Academy.

Joseph Ropes

Daguerreotypes, Landscape Painter, Portrait Painter, , , , , ,

1841                Exchange Building, Portland, Maine.                                                                                1843                5½ Tremont Row, Boston, Massachusetts.                                                                      1843                Manning’s Building, Salem, Massachusetts.

Joseph Ropes was recorded in one notice, one advertisement and one biographical entry.  The announcement appeared in the Portland Transcript (Portland, Maine)[1] on August 14, 1841.

Daguerreotypes.   We have not before called the attention of our readers to the opportunity now afforded of obtaining a Portrait from life by means of the Daguerreotype.  Mr. Ropes has taken rooms for a brief period in the Exchange, where he attends to Photographic Miniature painting.  A sitting of from two to four minutes will give one a perfect likeness—a portrait of wonderful beauty and delicacy.  Our readers generally have doubtless heard of this surprising art, by which a faithful transcript of one’s features may be obtained, drawn by Nature’s own finger, and it is well worth their while to visit Rope’s Room and look over the different portraits taken in this way.  When Nature paints, she paints correctly and minutely.  One cannot help being astonished at the exquisite finish to be observed in these drawings.  Every minute figure of the dress—every thread even may be detected‑‑and so with the features—every line is completely shadowed forth.  Mr. R. is always happy to see his friends at his room—who have but to speak the word to obtain from him their counterparts.

The advertisement ran from July 3 to August 17, 1843 in the Salem Register (Salem, Massachusetts).  Beautiful Specimens of Photographic Miniatures.  May be seen at the room of the subscriber in Manning’s Building, 3d story.  He has been connected several months with the establishment of Southworth & Co., Prize Photographers, and is familiar with their process of taking and coloring pictures.  Those who wish for a Daguerreotype likeness in the most pleasing and popular style will do well to call.

Room open to visitors at all hours of the day.  J. Ropes.

The biographical entry is from The New-York Historical Society’s Directory of Artists in America 1564-1860.  Ropes, Joseph (1812-1885).  Landscape,. Miniature, and crayon artist and drawing teacher.  Born at Salem (Mass.)  In 1812, he did not seriously study painting until in his mid-thirties when he took lessons from John R. Smith and at the National Academy.  He exhibited at the academy in 1848.  From 1851-1865 he had a studio in Hartford (Conn.).  In 1865 he went abroad for eleven years; on his return he settled in Philadelphia.  He died in NYC in 1885.  Ropes was the author of Linear Prespective (1850) and Progressive Steps in Landscape Drawing (1853) [ ] French, Art and Artists in Connecticut, 79; Bolton, Miniature Painters; Cowdrey, NAD; Swan, BA; Hartford CD 1855; Tuckerman, Book of the Artists.

Joseph Ropes is recorded in A Directory of Massachusetts Photographers 1839-1900.

[1] Transcribed from DagNews.

S. Mason

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, , , ,

1848                3 Crandell’s Block, Taunton, Massachusetts.

S. Mason was recorded in two advertisements that ran in The True Democrat (Taunton, Massachusetts). The first advertisement ran from August 30 to November 1, 1848. S. Mason, Portrait Painting and Daguerreotype Miniature Rooms, No. 3 Crandell’s Block— Up stairs, Taunton.

The second advertisement ran from November 9, to December 27, 1848.  S. Mason, Portrait Painting No. 3 Crandell’s Block— Up stairs, Taunton.  Daguerreotype Miniature In handsome Morocco Cases taken for One Dollar.

S. Mason is not recorded in other photographic directories. This is possibly Sanford Mason, a portrait painter who was active in Providence, Rhode Island, Boston and Philadelphia.[1]

[1] The New York Historical Society Dictionary of Artists in America 1584-1860.

George W. James

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, , , , , , ,

1845                Burt’s Building, Springfield, Massachusetts.                                                                      1845                Lombard’s new building, nearly opposite the Chicopee Bank, Springfield,                                      Massachusetts.

George W. James was recorded in three announcements and two advertisements.  The first advertisement ran from June 24 to 28, 1845 in the Daily Republican (Springfield, Massachusetts).  A Rare Chance, Is now offered for any young man who wishes to engage in a pleasant and lucrative business.

Mr. George W. James, Daguerreotype Artist, being about to engage in a different business, offers his establishment in Burt’s Building for sale.  He has recently fitted up his room in a superior style, and everything is in good order for taking Likenesses.  He will give any young man instructions in the art, so that he will be competent to take charge of the establishment with a very little practice.

Mr. James will remain here a few day longer, and will be happy to take any persons Likeness in a style superior to any that have been offered to the public.  P. S.  Any person taking the whole establishment will receive instruction gratis.

The second advertisement ran from August 5 to October 29, 1845 in the Daily Republican  (Springfield, Massachusetts).  New Daguerreotype Rooms.  Removal.  Mr. James, wishes to inform the citizens of Springfield, that he has removed his operating rooms from Burt’s to Lombard’s new building, nearly opposite the Chicopee Bank, where he is prepared to execute Likenesses in a style superior to any that have ever been offered to the inhabitants of this town or vicinity.

Miniatures taken of various sizes, from Breast Pins upwards, Mr. James Requests The Public To Call And Examine Specimens For Themselves.  Likenesses taken without regard to weather, and warranted correct.

The first announcement appeared on August 6, 1845 in the Daily Republican (Springfield, Massachusetts).  We refer our readers to the advertisement of Mr. James, who has concluded to remain in town, and has taken rooms in the new Lombard building.  His daguerreotype portraits, we believe, are satisfactorily executed.

The second announcement appeared on October 14, 1845 in the Daily Republican (Springfield, Massachusetts).  Hampden Co. Agricultural Fair.  List of entries at the Show, Oct. 8 and 9—concluded from yesterday.  Specimens Of Fine Arts.  Listed are

G. W. James,                Springfield,         12 Specimens Daguerreotype                                                  Stock & Cooley,          Springfield,            6 Paintings and 4 Daguerreotypes                                        J. Beals, Jr.                   W. Springfield,      4 Daguerreotypes                                                                      G. W. James,                Springfield,            4 Daguerreotypes                                                                        J. T. Ames,                     Cabotville,              2 Daguerreotypes

The third announcement appeared on October 16, 1845 in the Daily Republican (Springfield, Massachusetts).  Hampden Co. Agricultural Fair…A Frame containing twelve Daguerreotype Likenesses, by G. W. James—among which we recognized several of our citizens as natural as life.  Also, another by the same, taken from miniature paintings, well executed.  Several admirable Daguerreotype Miniatures of large size and near to life, by Stock & Cooley.

George W. James is not recorded in other photographic directories.

George Harrison Hite

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, Talbotype, , , , , , , , , , , ,

1850                247 Broadway, New York, New York.

George Harrison Hite was recorded in two announcements and seven advertisements.  The first announcement ran on June 18, 1850 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Fine Arts.—Samuel R. Fanshaw & George H. Hite[1], miniature and portrait painters, have associated with W. & F. Langenheim, the celebrated Daguerreotype and Talbotype artist of Philadelphia, and purchased the splendid National Miniature Gallery, established by Edwards, Anthony & Clark, 247 Broadway, corner Murray street, where they will superintend the sittings for Daguerreotypes.  Their Talbotype miniatures and portraits, which are taken upon ivory, ivory-paper, etc., may be seen in the above gallery.  There is but one prevailing opinion, that they possess all the truthfulness of a good Daguerreotype, with all the artistic merit that has characterized the former highly finished miniatures of those artists.  For further evidence; please call and see them.

The first advertisement ran on June 27 & 28, 1850 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes and Daguerreotypes.—The subscribers having purchased the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, (late E. White’s) are prepared to take Talbotype Portraits of all sizes, up to the size of life.  The fidelity of likeness, and the beautiful finish of these pictures, gain them greater popularity every day.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most approved style.  The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at our establishment, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The second advertisement ran from July 3 to 6, 1850 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes and Daguerreotypes.—The subscribers having purchased the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, (late E. White’s) are prepared to take Talbotype Portraits of all sizes, up to the size of life.  The fidelity of likeness, and the beautiful finish of these pictures, gain them greater popularity every day.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most approved style.  The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at our establishment, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The third advertisement appeared on July 10, 1850 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory and ivory paper, are daily taken in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life, at the National Miniature Gallery.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most artistical style.  The public are invited to examine specimens at 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The fourth advertisement ran from July 14 to 17, 1850.  In The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory and ivory paper, are daily taken in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life, at the National Miniature Gallery.  Daguerreotypes taken in the most artistical style.  The public are invited to examine specimens at 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The Fifth advertisement ran on July 18 & 19, 1850 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Fine Arts.—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory and ivory paper and glass, and daguerreotypes are daily taken by the subscribers, in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life. The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The sixth advertisement ran on July 16 & 20, 1850 in the New York Daily Tribune (New York, New York).  Fine Arts—Talbotypes, or Portraits on Ivory, Ivory Paper and Glass, and Daguerreotypes, are daily taken by the subscribers in a superior style, and in any size required up to the size of life.  The public are respectfully invited to examine specimens at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway.  Hite, Langenheim &  Fanshaw.

The seventh advertisement appeared on August 29, 1850 in the New York Daily Tribune (New York, New York).  To Artists.—An artists who understands Miniature Portrait Painting in oil and water colors, and who can give proof of his talents, can find employment at the National Miniature Gallery, No. 247 Broadway.  None but competent persons need apply.  Hite, Langenheim & Fanshaw.

The second announcement appeared on October 9, 1851 in the New York Daily Tribune (New York, New York).  The Daguerreotypes At The Fair….The likeness of Mr. Hite, the miniature painter, is exquisite…. (Root Daguerreotype).

[1] The New York Historical Society Dictionary Of Artist in America 1564-1860.  Records both George Harrison Hite and Samuel Raymond Fanshaw as portrait and miniature painter.

 

M. W. Fitch

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Portrait Painter, , , , , ,

1855-1860       Address Unknown, Freemont, Ohio.[1]                                                                      1856-1859       Rooms in Nims’ Block, Fremont, Ohio.                                                                                  1859                   Rooms Over the Bank of Fremont, corner of Front and Croghan Streets,                                         Fremont, Ohio.

M. W. Fitch was recorded in three announcements and two advertisements. The first announcement appeared on October 24, 1856 in the Fremont Journal (Fremont, Ohio). Ambrotypes and Painting.  Mr. A. D. Wiles, has sold his stock, fixtures, &c. in the ambrotype business, and removed from the place.  His successor, Mr. Fitch, will continue to occupy the same rooms.  Mr. F., is also a very fine painter; and those of our citizens who wish can have the opportunity of sitting for their portraits.  Call at his rooms.

The first advertisement ran from October 31, 1856 to March 11, 1859 in the Fremont Journal.  (Fremont, Ohio).  Fitch’s Gallery of Art.  Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes and Photographs taken in superior style.  Also, Portraits painted Life Size, either from the sitter, or from Daguerreotypes, and satisfaction warranted in all cases.

I have lately purchased the stock, fixtures, &c., belonging to the A. D. Wiles’ room, in Nims’ block, and shall continue the business at the same place, where I shall be happy to attend to those who favor me with a call.  Instruction given in Ambrotyping, also in Portrait and landscape painting.  M. W. Fitch.  Fremont. Oct. 31, 1856.

The second announcement appeared on October 8, 1858 in the Fremont Journal (Fremont, Ohio).  Sandusky County Fair.  This annual exhibition which came off on the Agricultural Society’s grounds in Fremont…Painting, Printing, &c., No. 31.

5.  Ambrotypes…M. W. Fitch.                                                                                                                                6.  Oil Painting….M. W. Fitch.

The announcement appeared on October 15, 1858 in the Fremont Journal (Fremont, Ohio).  Sandusky County Fair, 1858.  Premiums Awarded…No. 31—Painting and Printing….

M. W. Fitch, Ambrotypes…Diploma.                                                                                                              M. W. Fitch, Oil Painting….Diploma.

The second advertisement ran from March 18 to December 30, 1859.  In the Fremont Journal (Fremont, Ohio).  Ambrotypes.    M. W. Fitch, takes pleasure in saying to his numerous patrons and friends, that he is still Making Pictures in the Best Style, and on as reasonable terms as any artist in town.  He has Lately added a large Camera, to his apparatus capable of taking ambrotypes direct from the sitter.  Oil paintings made from daguerreotypes or from life and warranted satisfactory.  Instructions given in the business. Rooms—Over the Bank of Fremont, corner of Front and Croghan Streets.  M. W. Fitch.   Fremont, March 18, 1859.

M. W. Fitch was recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Fremont, Ohio for 1859-1860.

[1] Ohio Photographers 1839-1900 by Diane VanSkiver Gagel.