A blacksmith posed with his trade tools fills this ninth plate ruby ambrotype, captured in the warm red-toned substrate characteristic of the ruby glass process and housed in a thermoplastic Union case dating to the 1860s. The photographer is unidentified and no studio imprint is present. The image is a rare occupational portrait, made all the more compelling by the subject's deliberate decision to be photographed in full working dress with tools in hand.

The man wears a broad-brimmed hat pushed back on his head, a patterned vest over a work shirt with sleeves rolled, and a loosely knotted neckerchief. He grips a pair of tongs or dividers in both hands at center frame, and a hammer or similar striking tool is tucked visibly at his right side, confirming his trade identity. His expression is direct and composed, with a slight upward set to the mouth.

Occupational ambrotypes of identified tradesmen are among the most sought-after examples of the medium, and a blacksmith posed with tools is a particularly uncommon subject. The thermoplastic case features an embossed eagle and scrolling foliate border on both inner panels of the spine side, while the front cover presents a pastoral beehive and agricultural implement scene within a matching acanthus surround.

The lot is a ninth plate ruby ambrotype housed in a thermoplastic Union case.

From the collection of James Lee Soffer

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