This striking cabinet card photograph captures a young child, seemingly around two or three years old, standing beside a small dog that is perched on an ornately decorated pedestal table. The child, dressed in a beautifully tailored Victorian outfit, places an arm around the dog in a gentle yet confident embrace, looking directly at the camera with an expression that conveys a mix of curiosity and composure. The child holds a small wooden toy boat, a charming prop that adds an element of playfulness to the otherwise formal portrait. The child is dressed in a dark-colored, long-sleeved dress with a pleated skirt, a lace-trimmed collar, and a large bow at the neck. White lace detailing decorates the cuffs and bodice, further emphasizing the intricate craftsmanship of the garment. The child’s short, neatly trimmed hair, round face, and large eyes give them an endearing yet serious appearance. At first glance, the dog appears almost lifelike, but upon closer inspection, its stiff posture, rigid gaze, and unnatural stillness suggest that it may not be a live animal but rather a taxidermy specimen or even a sculpted prop. The dog’s breed resembles that of a pug or pug-mix, with a compact, sturdy build, a broad face, short snout, and slightly bulging eyes. Its expression is frozen in an almost human-like seriousness. The photograph is mounted on a cabinet card with elegant scalloped edges, a decorative feature that enhances its visual appeal. The photographer’s name, De Young’s, is embossed in gold lettering at the bottom, along with the studio’s address at 815 Broadway, New York. The photographer, Joseph DeYoung (1843-1919), was both well known and highly respected. He had operated his studio from a number of addresses in New York City. He left the 815 Broadway address, where this photograph was taken in about 1890. He was at that location from at least 1884. In 1907 DeYoung’s studio was involved in the apprehension of a noted thief. The studio had a display case outside the store so pedestrians could see samples of their work. The thief was caught jimmying open the case and removing two sports photographs. The police were very interested in the home address given to them by their new arrestee. They were surprised that he lived in a mansion but it made sense when they learned he was a millionaire’s butler. He had worked in that same capacity for other millionaires living in the city. When the police searched his room, they found a cache of personal items belonging to his current and former employers. Years later, a deceased DeYoung made the news because of his bizarre estate planning. When he died, he left five dollars to his wife, five dollars to his son, and one half of his business to his business partner, Matilda Wallace. The back of the cabinet card is a masterpiece in itself, featuring an elaborate gold-embossed design against a black background. Swirling Victorian filigree, floral motifs, and elegant typography proudly advertise the services of De Young’s as Photographers, Portrait Painters, and Crayon Artists. The phrase “Extra Finish” suggests that this particular image may have been a premium offering, possibly with superior printing quality or special treatment. (SOLD)
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 
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