Godwin

circa 1895 – circa 1905

Victorian

Godwin – Artistic Photographer Troutman Block, Butler, Pennsylvania The ornate back design featuring intertwined initials and flowing Art Nouveau ornamentation is typical of high-quality regional studios around 1900.

This is a formal studio bust portrait of an elderly gentleman shown in three-quarter view. His features include: Closely trimmed hair brushed upward at the front Long, full white beard extending well below the collar Prominent ears and deeply set eyes Calm, composed expression His clothing reflects late Victorian to early Edwardian transitional menswear: Dark sack coat or early lounge coat Subtle plaid or checked fabric pattern High stiff collar Narrow, vertically striped tie No visible waistcoat chain (suggesting a simpler, later 1890s-early 1900s aesthetic) The styling suggests a man of respectable middle-class standing, likely a merchant, professional, or established farmer.

Good

Feb 14, 2026

Front: Overall good clarity Mild surface spotting and age toning Even fading consistent with natural albumen aging Back: Decorative printed advertisement Mild foxing (orange spotting) No major structural damage visible

Description

Studio cabinet card portrait of a distinguished older man with full white beard, wearing a checked sack coat and high collar. The mount’s ornate Art Nouveau backmark and “Extra Finish” designation indicate a premium late Victorian studio product from Butler, PA.