Stern Couple with Their Books, Horizontal Quarter Plate Daguerreotype in Half Case

I've been resisting buying daguerreotypes, in significant part because I have a very hard time photographing them well, but I really loved this serious looking couple with stack of books (his and hers--and she's protecting hers!) resting on the table between them. A wonderful play of hands, and patterns, too, and I especially love the expression on her face, which seems a combination of keenly observant and self protective. With a bit of gilding at the center of her collar. 

4 3/4" x 3 13/16" in half case, as found. Good condition, image crisp and strong, with plenty of wear to the exterior of the case.