The Daguerreotype Process and Its Impact

Introduction to Daguerreotype

• Date & Event: August 19, 1839, the French Academy of Science disclosed the formula for daguerreotypes.
• Inventor: Louis Jacques-Mandé Daguerre.
• Significance: Sold his formula to the French government to be freely available.
• Public Reaction: Triggered daguerreotype mania, especially in Paris, Europe, and America.

Popularity in America

• Democratic Appeal: Affordable for all classes, contributing to its popularity in America.
• Cultural Impact: Daguerreotype studios attracted diverse demographics.

The Daguerreotype Process

Materials and Preparation

• Plate Composition: Copper plated with silver.
• Polishing Process:
  • Use of white powder (rotten stone) with dilute alcohol to polish.
  • Application of red powder (rouge) for buffing.
  • Repeat polishing to enhance reflectivity.

Sensitizing the Plate

• Sensitizing Technique:
  • Place polished plate in a box with iodine fumes to create silver iodide.
  • Repeat with bromine fumes for bromoiodide.

Capturing the Image

• Camera Setup:
  • Plate placed in a holder, inserted into camera.
  • Exposure time: Often more than 20 seconds.
• Sitter Instructions:
  • Sitters advised to remain still, sometimes using an iron support.

Developing the Image

• Mercury Development:
  • Plate developed in mercury vapor at 175°F.
• Fixing the Plate:
  • Use of hyposulfite of soda to fix the image.

Finishing and Assembly

• Final Touches:
  • Use of chloride of gold for hardening and enhancing image permanence.
  • Assembled in decorative cases for display.

Industrial and Economic Impact

• Industry Growth:
  • By mid-1850s, ~3 million daguerreotypes produced annually in the U.S.
  • Industry valued at $7.5 million.
• Cultural Penetration:
  • Widespread availability in cities, integral to personal and family memorabilia.

Social and Cultural Significance

• Documentation and Memory:
  • Daguerreotypes became treasure household items, documenting family and individual portraits.
• Broad Social Reach:
  • Described as ubiquitous in urban areas by 1849.