Cabinet Card Photos

The cabinet card got it's name because it was often displayed in a cabinet or on a side table in the family parlor. It was popular for family portraits. Cabinet cards are large with a space for the name of the photographer and/or studio.

A cabinet card is a photographic print mounted on card stock.  It first appeared in 1863 and was popular between 1875 - 1895. The early photo's were created with brown tones, while the later photo's used silver and black tones.

Written on the back of the card above left (click to view larger):  Mrs. Burges, Kati Decker, Helen Comstrek, Mrs. Decker, Mrs. Brooks. Sara Kinton, Mrs. Kerthline, Mate Bordon. Ruth Decker, Fanny Bordon, Mary Jay. Lil Jayne. Photographer: Fred Jennings, Mehoopany, Pa.

Photographer's Name and Studio: 

• 1866 - 1879 The photographers name and/or studio name printed small. 
• 1880 The photographer's name and studio written in large cursive text.
• Late 1880s-90s Gold text on black card stock .
• 1890 The studio name is often embossed.

Card Stock:

• 1866-1880 Square, lightweight card stock
• 1880-1890 Square, heavy weight card stock
• 1890's Scalloped edges

The dimensions of the standard Cabinet Card are 6 ½ x 4 ½ inches.

Written on the back of the card:  H.M.E. Dr. Snell
Photographer: Frank Warwick, Meshoppen, Pa.
(click to view larger)