Ferrotype 2 men standing looking into the distance. Victorian era. 1870. Metal photograph.

Ferrotype representing 2 men standing looking into the distance. One wearing a fur hat, the other a cap hat.
Victorian era.
Good condition (see photos).
Around 1860-1870.
9.2 x 6.1 cm or 3 5/8 x 2 3/8 inches


The Ferrotype process was developed by the Frenchman Adolphe Alexandre Martin (1824-1896) who was looking for a process to improve the work of engraving on plates for printers.
Like the ambrotype, the ferrotype uses a photosensitive collodion base. This is spread on a 0.15 mm thick iron plate which has been previously covered with black varnish.
Simple, fast, inexpensive, the Ferrotype would experience enormous commercial success and would last until the eve of the Second World War in Europe.
Like other types of black and white images, Ferrotypes can be enhanced with colors applied with a brush by artisan photographers.


If you have any questions, please do not hesitate.