South Berwick Cadet Band (Framed collective photo of brass musicians in uniform)

South Berwick, NH: ca. 1880-90s. Sepia photograph, 7 x 9.5 inches. Housed in a presentation frame with a felted back secured with pins. The front is reminiscent of some of the brasswork frames/mats in old union cases of the period, but is probably from the early-mid 20th century and is in excellent condition. The photograph has a relatively inconspicuous wax droplet near the center and is faded along the left edge, otherwise near fine. To prevent potential damage, the photo has not been examined outside the frame. 20 men, a bit motley and at odds with their flamboyant Prussian-inspired uniforms. They appear to be posing for a different photographer, as indicated by their turned heads and the off-kilter aspect. A photographer positioned where most of them are looking would have a traditional straight-on shot of the band. There's also the gaping doorway to consider, where you can just make out a wall-mounted accordion coat rack and the blur of someone wearing a white collar around their