Studio Portrait Late 1850s- Early 1860s

[Old Mother Reilly]

This image was taken from a recently re-discovered ambrotype.  Looking at the pagaoda sleeves and geometric trimming on the dresses, I think it was taken in the early 1860s.  Would other Rootschatters agree?

It looks to me as if the dress on the lefthand sitter doesn't really fit which makes me wonder if the clothes were borrowed or perhaps kept by the studio as much props for the portrait as a background cloth?  Does anyone know if that was something studios might do?

I'm also hopeless at guessing ages - any ideas as to the ages of the girls, please?

[jim1]

Studios didn't have dressing up boxes, these are their own clothes.
Possibly early 1860's but could just as easily be mid 1850's.
They look around 8 & 12.

[japeflakes]

Just to see what a B&W edition looks like

[Old Mother Reilly]

Thank you both. 

Jim1, it is useful to know what a neutral person estimates the girls ages to be - your guesses fit the profile of the relatives I have in mind. 

I do wonder whether they borrowed the dresses though!

[bearkat]

I do wonder whether they borrowed the dresses though!

They were probably made with plenty of growing room.

[Milliepede]

The girl on the right looks a lot more "grown up" to me, even the way her hands are held is composed and she looks more serene but just my impression. 

I actually thought mother and daughter at first but can't see a wedding ring. 

[Lola5]

11 ans 15?