Tintypes were one of the first practical forms of affordable photographic images and enjoyed the height of their enormous popularity during the 1860s-1870s. Earlier tintypes, such as our example, were usually formal studio portraits. Because, however, they produced a quick, direct image on an easily stored thin metal plate and because they required relatively little training or complicated equipment, tintypes soon became ubiquitous at popular seaside resorts, carnivals, fairgrounds and itinerant picture booths. Our affluent little Victorian girl is typical of studio tintype portraiture. More remarkable in its own way is the pristine condition of the gutta-percha box frame. Gutta-percha is a naturally occurring form of latex native to the Malay Peninsula. Easy to mold when heated, non-conductive and durable, the adaptable material was widely used for personal and industrial purposes until it was replaced by plastics at the turn of the 20th century. Because objects like our photograph sustained heavy wear, it is rare to find an example in its original state. Condition: Common dust accumulation behind the glass, otherwise excellent. Dimensions: 2.5" x 3".