Up for sale is an exceptional, completely intact 19th-century Victorian thermoplastic "Union Case" housing two original male ambrotype portraits. Manufactured by the renowned Littlefield, Parsons & Co., this piece is a phenomenal find for collectors of early American photography and mourning-era antiques. Key Features & Highlights: Double-Sided Figural Motif: This rare case features the highly detailed, high-relief "Girl with a Flower Basket" pictorial design on BOTH the front and back covers. Most cases from this era featured a plain or geometric backing; the matching double-sided relief makes this piece highly desirable. Authentic Manufacturer Label: The original pink/cream paper factory label remains completely intact and legible inside the lid. It proudly displays the company name and historical patent dates: October 14, 1856, and April 21, 1857. Dual Ambrotypes: The case contains two beautifully preserved, crisp ambrotype portraits (collodion on glass) of unidentified gentlemen. Complete Hardware: Features the patented "Embracing Riveted Hinge" system. The hinges are strong, completely intact, and the case opens and snaps shut securely. The internalinternal decorative golden brass mats, frames, and glass are completely original. Condition Report:Excellent antique condition overall. The thermoplastic body retains a rich, deep chocolate-brown color with remarkably crisp relief details. There are no major chips, structural cracks, or repairs. The tiny original metal alignment pins are still present on the frame. The interior velvet lining shows light, honest age-related wear but remains vibrant. Please review the high-resolution photos for exact cosmetic condition.Shipping & Handling: This delicate item will be wrapped securely in archival tissue, heavily bubble-wrapped, and shipped in a rigid box to ensure it arrives safely.💡 The case itself is 6.25 x 3.75" Those dimensions provide the definitive information needed to finalize the listing detail. A case measuring 6.25" x 3.75" is a specialized variant designed specifically to hold two matching 1/6 plate mats side-by-side. In the antique collector world, the individual glass images inside are called "One-Sixth Plates" (standard size for a 1/6 plate is roughly 3.25" x 2.75") Antique 1850s Littlefield Parsons Double 1/6 Plate Ambrotype Union Case.
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