A dynamic 4x5-inch daguerreotype presented in a 4-3/4x6-inch mat and English-style "half-plate" push-button leather case. The image is a striking portrait of an English gentleman, seated at a table and holding an unidentified book. The image has been resealed some time long before we acquired it; the apparent "cloudiness" seen in the image is, we believe, on the inside of the glass and not on the image. Looking at the image from a slight angle, the sky in the background appears to have a magnificent light blue tint. The English-style oversized half-plate leather push-button case in minutely warped but in Excellent condition, and carries the gold-stamped imprint on the reverse, Mayall, 224 Regent Street, Argyll Place, London . My Mayall-ology is admittedly weak, but this image is by John E. Mayall, probably c. 1853; and not by John J.E. Mayall, who studied daguerreotyping in the US before returning to London in 1847 and opening a chain of daguerreian studios. $1,200.00