photo date and opinions of if this is macabre - Sara Smith nee Trow

[gemmanoon]

Hi all,

I've attached a photo of my ancestor, Sara Smith nee Trow, and who are belioeved to be her two youngest sons, Matthew and George (but we don't know which is which).

This photo came to me by way of several older relatives, and it was only when I was looking at it this week that I noticed Sarah's eyes and hands.

I think she is dead.

Sarah died in 1888, so I'd love some expert opinions on whether the clothing, style, etc is right for about that time period in Montgomeryshire, Wales. Her sons would have been either side of 40 years old in that year.

Thanks for your input!

Gemma

[Treetotal]

In my opinion, I think you are right, I think this is most likely to be a Post Mortem photo.
Carol

[Gadget]

It looks very like it to me, too.

In addition to her fixed expression, her fingers look arranged and stiff. Also, the son on the left looks as if he might be supporting her head or holding a support.


Gadget

[Ruskie]

It certainly looks that way, however if you had not mentioned ages I would have thought the men were somewhat younger than 40.

[bitzar]

Something looks wrong.com about the whole photo!  Even the son on our right looks a bit off, added or something...

I don’t understand why you would do it.  Interesting though.

I remember a post like this years ago.

Bitzar.

[Gadget]

Something looks wrong.com about the whole photo!  Even the son on our right looks a bit off, added or something...

You're right. Having had a more detailed look, I'm sure the man on the right doesn't seem to have his legs where they should be if he was standing there. The base of the 'column' can be seen and I'm sure it might have been partially hidden by his legs.  Also, as Ruskie says, the sons look much younger than 40- maybe mid 20s- 30s.

Gadget

[Ruskie]

The photo seems to have suffered a bit of wear and tear which may make seeing the detail more difficult. It's not showing up very well on my monitor.

I don't know if it would help at all, but Gemma, are you able to obtain a better scan of the photo?

[Treetotal]

I can see the shoe of the man on the right...I agree that they look to be younger than 40s.
Carol

[Gadget]

It just doesn't look right. ??out of proportion