When photography was new, many people, including the famous abolitionist Frederick Douglass, wanted to have their portraits made. Douglass had this daguerreotype taken while he was on a speaking tour. To protect them, daguerrotypes like this one were placed in metal frames with covers.

After discussing the portrait, make a frame case for a photograph of yourself.

Discussion Questions:

• How do you think Douglass was feeling when this portrait was made?
  
  
• How can you tell?
  
  
• How can you tell that this is an old photograph?

Steps:

1. Cut an oval out of the center of the construction paper.
   
   
2. Fold the cardboard in half so that it forms a 5" x 7" frame with a cover. Cover the cardboard completely with aluminum foil. You may need to use glue to secure the edges.
   
   
3. Sit in a chair and strike a serious pose like Douglass. Ask a friend or family member to take your photograph and then have it developed into a 4" x 6" print. As an alternative, use an existing 4" x 6" photograph or a draw your own self-portrait.
   
   
4. Glue the photograph or drawing to the inside of your foil case. Center the construction paper over the photograph and glue it in place.