Thankyou very much Tommy, Chris, Trellisick, and mjb, i like all your versions, despite how poor the original is you managed to bring out hidden detail, amazing !!
Thankyou Chinakay and mjb about the date. Didnt notice the mourning ribbon before, perhaps this helps date it at the time of the death of Queen Victoria. She died Jan 22 1901, so that would fit in with Edwardian period. 1901 !!!
The gentleman in the photo, my Great-Great Uncle, Richard Edwards, Welsh born, was elected the first Federal MP for the seat of Brisbane, at first election held March 1901, for the newly created (1st Jan 1901) Commonwealth Of Australia. Even by 1901, he was well known in Brisbane, a prominent citizen, wealthy, and publically known through ownership of the major newspaper at the time. So it would seem to make sense, that as a loyal "British subject" and public official, he might publically wear a mourning ribbon. Queen Victoria's passing was a significant event at the time. (His wife outlived him, as did his children, so mourning ribbon would not have been for a family member).
Thanks again everyone for your help, much appreciated
