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Condition Notes: VG+ to Ex. the bottom corners were rounded for framing (old). Note one slight bump in the upper left corner. Revenue stamp is well attached to reverse with hand cancellation in black ink.
Rare CDV of Mary Collins Whiting (1835–1912), pioneering American lawyer and businesswoman.
Photographed by W.M. Knight of Buffalo, NY, this carte de visite (2.5× 4) captures Whiting in a contemplative pose, seated, with her head resting on her hand: an evocative portrait of intellect and resolve.
Mary Collins Whiting became a practicing attorney at age 52, defying 19th-century gender norms to build a successful career in law, real estate, insurance, and brokerage. She was recognized as one of the most successful women insurance agents in the United States and was widely respected for her philanthropic work.
This image dates to 1864-1866 based on the stamp on reverse, made during her active professional years. The sepia tone, studio backdrop, and card mount are consistent with period CDVs, and the photographer’s imprint adds regional provenance. The reverse still has the attached 2-cents blue Internal Revenue stamp, as shown. Dated precisely to 1864–1866 based on the 2-cent Proprietary revenue stamp affixed to the reverse, required by federal law during the Civil War photography tax period.
Condition: Excellent tonal range with minimal edge wear. No creases or major blemishes.
Genuine Historical Photo from the Era – No Modern Copies
4 picture(s) included as part of our description. Please examine carefully before purchase. If you have any questions before purchase please contact us here: we are very happy to help in any way we can.
ET01408-1500 2603 DR1Reprint or publishing rights for photographs are not granted with purchase.
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