143
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(CASED IMAGE)
Sixth-plate daguerreotype likely depicting John Brown, with Martin M. Lawrence’s
imprint on the mat; in a half leather case. Early 1850s
[40,000/60,000]
There are 12 previously known portraits of John Brown, 5 of which are daguerreotypes.
This particular daguerreotype has been analyzed by noted Brown scholars Jean Libby,
and Louis DeCaro, in collaboration with Hudson Library archivist Gwen Mayer and
Brown illustrator John Hendrix.All have concluded that this is the 13th portrait of the
infamous abolitionist.
The identification is based on specific physical attributes that correspond to Brown’s physical
demeanor (his hairline, forehead creases, and nose). Libby, a Brown descendant as well as
scholar, specifically cites “the significant marker of a chevron hair loss near the middle of
his right forehead” as a telling identifier. Libby also indicates that Brown’s suit appears to
be the same item of clothing he wore in two other portraits.
Other factors contributing to this attribution are Brown’s association with Kansas and
his relationship with daguerreian photographer Martin M. Lawrence, who was the
photographer of the last known Brown portrait. Finally, there is the evidence of the
unusual pin in his collar, which resembles Brown’s diamond stud that was given to
Abraham Lincoln and is now in Harvard University’s archives.
