These were the first publicly accessible photographic processes, and were widely available from 1840-1860.

Silvered glass and mercury vapor photographs were among the earliest forms of photography available to the public, and their popularity endured for several decades from 1840 to the late 1850s. Each image produced with this method was unique, as no negative or positive template was created in the process. The mirror-like, silver surfaces were protected by a top layer of glass and usually encased within small, ornamented cases of embossed leather or velvet and presented in gilt brass mats. A rich alternative was black-lacquered cases ornamented with decorative patterns created by mother of pearl inlays.

The experience of viewing an actual daguerreotype is akin to viewing a hologram, as the illusive imagery floats within the glass capsule.