This is a thermoplastic union case with two beautiful daguerreotypes of a couple, probably husband and wife. The daguerreotypes are sixth plates and hand-colored. The embossed covers depict a beehive and farming implements, with bees buzzing in the background, and the motif is repeated on front and back (Krainik 121, Beehive, Grain, and Farm Tools, and Berg 1-90). The clasp is snug and there are a couple of slight nicks on the case. The case was made by Littlefield Parsons in the 1850Â’s and measures 3 5/16 x 3 3/4 in. wide, and the motif was later adopted by the Mormons as a symbol of their industry. Paul Berg was another leading authority on Civil War era cases. (See Paul Berg, Nineteenth Century Photographic Cases and Wall Frames, 2003.)