This frame case is empty and made in union style; meaning it is a union of different types of materials that were heated and worked into a mold creating a hard finish. This type of case production was developed in the early 1850s by Samuel Peck and Alfred Critchlow, who called his creation the “Florence Compound.”  By the 1850s Union cases became a means of functionality more so than novelty.  The design on this union case is simply called “geometric” and the back of the case varies slightly in design from the front.  It was meant to house Carte de visite (CDVs).

The item measures 3” by approximately 4 ¼”. The hinges are smooth with no issue of opening and closing, but the clasp shuts loosely.  The engravings are sharp and case is black. There are no manufacture’s stamps inside the case.  On the inside, the left side of the case has a velvet pillow cushion.  The right side is outlined with a velvet border and empty.

A pretty unique piece for those looking for a Civil War period appropriate CDV frame or who collects union style cases. [mk] [ph:L]

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