Initially invented and patented by a daguerreotypist, Samuel Peck, in 1854, thermo-plastic cases began to replace the previous ones of leather and paper. Often referred to as a Union or Gutta-percha case (manufactured from saw dust from the gutta-percha tree and shellac), this novelty became itself an artistic object when its surface design was stamped from dies originally carved by artist-engravers. The Union case was substituted for its precedents due to both its artistic and practical competence. Not only could it possess deeper moldings, more elaborate designs, and polished gilt appearances of the surface, it also had inherent durability and enhanced resistance to breakage, which further spurred the use of the plastic case.

Design motifs on the early cases ranged from simple geometries to elaborate natural patterns. Often embossed on the leather case were flowers, fruits, ornate Rococo patterns, and ancient designs of Greek inspiration. With the invention of the Union case, the scope of the design motif expanded to include themes derived from literature, mythology, famous paintings, patriotic sentiment, and religion.

The purpose of this database is to locate as many different types as possible and identify the nearly 800 different patterns with pictures and engraver information, size and the maker. These were short lived with a life of about 15 years. The civil war saw the end of these, as cheaper cases took their place. Many of these were used in the civil war and will be found with soldiers’ pictures and soldiers carried their family pictures in them during the war.

They are found in many sizes and shapes and from full plates to 1/16 size, with 1/9 and 1/6 size being the most common. We will be using Kranik's book as a number reference for each picture. Hope you enjoy our efforts.