The ambrotype

An ambrotype is an early photographic process from the 1850s that creates a detailed image on a glass plate. It involves coating the glass with chemicals that react to light, then exposing it in a camera. When developed, the glass shows a sharp, positive image—often resembling a modern photograph—because the dark areas are created by the opaque backing behind the glass. Ambrotypes are appreciated for their clarity and fine detail but are fragile and must be kept carefully. They represent a significant step in the history of photography, bridging the gap between early methods and modern processes.