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Rare original 19th-century carte-de-visite photograph of Commodore Nutt (George Washington Morrison Nutt, 1848–1881), the celebrated little-person performer associated with P.T. Barnum.Nutt is shown full-length in his distinctive military/naval-style uniform, standing on a wooden studio chair with his cap placed on the seat beside him. The composition dramatically emphasizes his diminutive stature.The reverse bears the photographer’s imprint:Bradley & Rulofson
429 Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CaliforniaBradley & Rulofson was one of the leading photographic studios in 19th-century San Francisco and photographed numerous prominent entertainers, public figures, and celebrities.The reverse also bears an early handwritten identification beginning “Master…”, an especially interesting feature deserving further study.Subject: Commodore Nutt / George Washington Morrison Nutt
Associated with: P.T. Barnum
Photographer: Bradley & Rulofson
Address: 429 Montgomery Street, San Francisco
Format: Original albumen photograph mounted on carte-de-visite card
Period: 19th century
Condition: Very good antique condition overall, with expected age toning, light surface wear and minor marks to the mount. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.Commodore Nutt was one of the best-known performers promoted by P.T. Barnum, appearing alongside other celebrated Barnum personalities including General Tom Thumb. While photographs of Nutt were produced by several Eastern studios, this San Francisco Bradley & Rulofson example is an especially desirable West Coast image.
