In focus: Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of Abraham Lincoln. 1846

This wonderful image, a quarter plate daguerreotype, is currently the oldest image in my Dated Vintage Photographs group on Flickr.

To me this image underpins the real joy and true value of Flickr, and especially Flickr Commons – famous public institutions (in this case the Library of Congress) can reach mass audiences, extending their reach beyond their own websites, yet sharing the stage on equal terms with individuals who hold small private collections. As you can see from the comments, it’s also much appreciated.