Ambrotype Ayr1

[GKE]

Believe this to be David Kennedy, b. 1839 , chemist.

[PrueM]

Oh WOW! 

That is absolutely gorgeous - what a wonderful photo, and in amazing condition (presumably because no-one has fiddled about and got it out of its little case before).

I'm sure you will get plenty of interest if you would like this restored, although it barely needs any work at all.

Cheers
Prue

[IgorStrav]

Yes, this is fantastic.  What is he holding, not - as I first thought - a telescope, but some sort of chemical instrument?  And a case next to it, of something else?  Obviously meant to denote his occupation.

I know it's a silly remark, but such a modern face.

[chinakay]

Wonderful...I think you've got the technique, GKE

Now, any remarks from PrueM are to be taken to heart, as she is a professional photo conservator. If she's green with envy, and she has seen a lot of this sort of photo, just imagine the rest of us

Cheers,
China

[chinakay]

The two objects in the right side of the case kind of look like long forceps or tweezers.

The object in the middle of the case looks like a test tube.

See how the sides of his hair are kind of flipped out a bit? That would likely be because he has been wearing a hat.

[IgorStrav]

Is that a very low watch chain we can see at the bottom of his jacket?

[GKE]

I have no idea if they have ever been taken out before Prue but they do seem in good shape. The leather is a little worn on most of them and one case has a broken lock. The plush inside has come loose on 3 but other than that they seem fairly sturdy. Good to hear it needs very little restoration. I have no idea what it is that he is holding Igor. I'm hoping someone will say it is something to do with chemistry so I can confirm that this is David the Chemist! He does seem to have a very modern face although seems quite stern.

I will start putting up the rest on new threads China right away. I'm thrilled to have Prue's expert opinion on all of these pictures!

[PrueM]

It looks like a set of dividers, or possibly tweezers, on the right of the case.  I wondered if what he is holding was a ruler of some kind.  It looks like it belongs in the case, 2nd space from left.

*Sigh*  GREEN with envy is right! 

[jim1]

He looks the youngest of the sons & is wearing the more fashionable bow,jacket with contrasting trousers make him look right up to date.Unusual to see personal items in such an early photo.Late 1850's -v.early 60's I would suggest.
A high res. scan of the instruments is required methinks.

jim