Questions about an antique photo that I bought

[dehk]

I bought 2 antique photos from an antique store the other day.
One of them looks really interesting and it does not look like silver gelatin print, unless its just degrading. If you can tell me what you think it is it would be great.
Yes, It is paper.

If you're interested in seeing both photos front and back, go to my blog
http://dehk.wordpress.com/2011/03/15/two-photos-from-antique-store/

Cheers

 

[Hexavalent]

The first one looks like a silver print that has suffered "mirroring" - redeposition of the silver, forming a shiny surface.

 

[dehk]

The first one looks like a silver print that has suffered "mirroring" - redeposition of the silver, forming a shiny surface.

Should I rewash it? Is it because it wasn't washed good enough way back when?

 

[removed account4]

derek

it has nothing to do with inadequate washing ...sometimes prints silver-out.
there is really nothing you can do about it but .. enjoy it while you can

john

 

[dehk]

Sounds good, I'll enjoy it while I can, its actually a pretty interesting effect, I kinda like it.

 

[Hexavalent]

There are an assortment of chemical treatments, and 'home' treatments (pencil eraser, talcum powder etc.) that work with varying degrees of success - it's probably best left alone, or treated by a conservator.