Judging the Age of Glass Negatives
Almost all early negatives used to
make photographic prints were glass (the first paper photo, the early 1800s
Callotype, was made from a paper negative). Glass negatives were common into
the 1920s. In more modern times, including today, photographic negatives are
made out of thin plastic, easily distinguishable from glass.
Due to their physical appearance and feel, it is not difficult to
differentiate the later glass negatives from the early ones. The later
negatives (say 1920s) are thinner, machine cut and with a smooth surface. The
early glass negatives (say 1860s-70s) are thicker, hand cut and have a rougher
surface.
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