Identification

Matte Collodion Prints

common use: 1895-1910

Format

Matte collodion POPs are typically mounted to cards or inserted in folders. Image transfer via catalytic degredation may be present on materials that have been in contact with the image, such as the glassine in the folder presentation below.

Image Tone

Matte collodion prints are toned using gold and platinum, producing image colors ranging from brownish-black to purplish-brown to neutral black. Because matte collodion prints could be produced with image colors similar to those of platinum prints, they were often used as a cheap alternative.

Sheen

Surface gloss can be one of the most important features in distinguishing a matte collodion print from a platinum print. While matte collodion prints are relatively matte, they are not dead matte like platinum prints. The presence of a binder in matte collodion prints gives their surface a slight luster.