Tintype (ferrotype)

A tintype, also called a ferrotype, is a photograph formed directly on a thin, dark-lacquered iron sheet. Despite the name, the support is not tin. Against the dark background, the image appears positive although its visual effect derives from a weak negative.

Examples survive as loose plates, in paper mounts or in cases. Some were hand-coloured. The housing alone therefore proves neither process nor age. Tintypes can resemble ambrotypes, but ambrotypes have a glass support.

What should be examined?

Observe visible plate edges, mounts and known information without scraping or bending the plate. Magnetic attraction alone cannot conclusively identify a framed image, because an ambrotype may also have metal behind its glass. Do not dismantle a vulnerable housing merely to test this.

Moisture can corrode the iron. Rust may blister and detach the image layer. The thin plate can also become dented or creased. Do not straighten damage or polish a dark surface as though it were ordinary metal.

Practical example: record a portrait together with its case, inscriptions and family information. Document damage in a condition report and retain its ownership history. Rust, loose image layers or uncertain processes call for a photographic conservator's assessment.

To offer older photographs for sale, send OBA overall images and background information.