SMITHSONION BECOMES HOME OF THE OLDEST PHOTO OF A FIRST LADY WHICH SOLD FOR ALMOST $500K

A fascinating chapter in American photographic history has just been relocated. The Smithsonian recently purchased a daguerreotype of James Madison's wife Dolley Madison, which Sotheby's had previously sold. It is thought to be the earliest photograph of an American first lady. Madison, who was in her late seventies at the time, is shown in the 1846 portrait with her famous turban partially hidden by a crocheted shawl. Though piercing, her gaze betrays a hint of amusement. Emily Bierman, the global head of the auction house's photography department, told The New York Times that she had "this little hint of a smile." It's evident that she was a strong and wise woman.

From 1809 until 1817, Dolley Madison held the position of First Lady, and she is recognised for having established the modern First Lady position. As the unofficial hostess of the White House, Madison hosted parties and gatherings that drew in politicians with opposing ideologies, encouraging cross-party cooperation among the country's top brass. In addition, she received recognition for her valour in the War of 1812 when she assisted in rescuing a George Washington portrait following the British burning down the White House. 

Madison lived in Washington, D.C., until her death in 1849. John Plumbe Jr. took the black-and-white picture of her at his studio in that city. Immigrant Plumbe, who was born in Wales, attempted to start a daily magazine with pictures of "interesting public characters." He thus rose to prominence as one of America's most well-known photographers of the 19th century. In addition, he opened studios in over a dozen cities as an entrepreneur.