Unveiling the Truth: Exploring Joseph Smith Jr.'s Face through Comparative Analysis

I was recently asked to compare Joseph Smith's death mask with a copy of his daguerreotype. However, there are some important things to consider regarding the daguerreotype photos. They were taken using special meniscus lenses with long focal lengths, which can affect how a person's face appears in the image. Longer focal lengths make facial features look flatter and closer together, while shorter focal lengths can slightly exaggerate them. The daguerreotype lenses also had a shallow depth of field, meaning only a small part of the image is in sharp focus, with the rest appearing blurred. These factors make a difference in how Joseph Smith's face is portrayed in the daguerreotype. It's important to keep these lens characteristics in mind when comparing the death mask and the daguerreotype, as they can influence the way he looks in each.

In order to accurately compare the death mask and the daguerreotype, it was crucial to obtain a well-captured copy of the death mask with the right angle and lighting conditions. Many people tend to photograph the death mask up close using modern lenses, which can introduce distortion. Fortunately, the LDS Church now offers 3D files of the mask for download, which is an incredible resource for researchers studying Joseph Smith's face. Additionally, the use of orthographic projection helps minimize distortion, providing a more accurate representation of the features. These advancements and tools greatly contribute to the study and analysis of Joseph Smith's facial characteristics.

I embarked on a comparison by overlaying the death mask and the daguerreotype, taking care to avoid relying solely on the morphing effect that can make two dissimilar things appear similar. Instead, I focused on using prominent facial landmarks, such as Joseph's brow ridge and nose ridge, as the primary reference points for the comparison. This approach ensured a more accurate assessment of the similarities and differences between the two representations.

I must admit that I initially had some reservations. As someone who constantly challenges their own theories, I was open to the possibility of disproving my own beliefs. Part of me was actually hoping to discover that I had been mistaken all along. It's important to approach our research with an open mind and be willing to accept new findings, even if they challenge our existing notions.

But to my surprise, the evidence did not disprove my theories. On the contrary, it only reaffirmed them, as is often the case in my research endeavors. I meticulously mapped key facial lines, aligning the death mask with the landmarks on Joseph's face. The resemblance was striking! Even the creases under his eyes matched. Joseph's face reveals the truth, whether in the death mask or the daguerreotype. The unmistakable features and characteristics of Joseph Smith Jr. are evident in both representations. The death mask captures his unique facial structure, while the daguerreotype preserves his likeness through the early photography technique. The consistency between these two sources further solidifies the authenticity of Joseph Smith Jr.'s appearance. The truth shines through, bridging the gap between history and visual evidence.

Below are two photographic diagrams, one with mapping lines and one without. By studying both images, it becomes evident how strikingly similar they are, particularly in the area around the eyes. The mapping lines help to highlight the alignment and correspondence of key facial features, emphasizing the unmistakable resemblance between the death mask and the daguerreotype. The convergence of these visual elements further reinforces the compelling evidence of Joseph Smith Jr.'s identity in both representations.

It is worth noting that during the process of taking the death mask, Joseph Smith Jr. was in a horizontal position. In such circumstances, the absence of circulation can lead to blood pooling within the body, resulting in a pulling effect on the soft tissues, including the nose and mouth. This can create a tightened appearance, akin to a facelift. Additionally, without the natural contraction of muscles, the face tends to relax. Consequently, relying heavily on the exact positioning of these features may not be entirely reliable. Furthermore, it is essential to consider that Joseph's nose had been filled with cotton during the process of creating the death mask. These factors contribute to the unique characteristics observed in the death mask, which should be taken into account when comparing it to other representations of Joseph Smith Jr.'s face. Indeed, the landmarks of the brow ridge and nose ridge are often less affected by the specific conditions during the creation of a death mask. These areas tend to retain their distinctive features better and can serve as reliable reference points for comparison. By focusing on these landmarks, one can make meaningful observations and draw conclusions.

*It is also important to note that the blue landmark lines are exact copies and were created off the death mask.

I also wanted to share a picture of Joseph alongside a drawing by Sutcliffe Maudsley for comparison. Even though Sutcliffe wasn't sure where to place the eyes, the overall alignment is quite similar. I'll discuss this more in a future blog post. Additionally, I'm currently working on a comparison between the Larsen photo and Hyrum's death mask. Stay tuned for more updates on that.

While we don't know the exact focal length of the original daguerreotype, it is interesting to observe how it significantly alters the shape of the face. This factor becomes relevant when measuring the death mask against the image. It is unlikely for a death mask taken at close range with a focal length of 35mm to perfectly align with a daguerreotype image shot at 200mm. You can explore this fascinating concept further on a website that provides a convenient visual preview of focal length comparisons.

https://www.danvojtech.cz/blog/2016/07/amazing-how-focal-length-affect-shape-of-the-face/

Unveiling the Enigma: Analyzing the new "Larsen Daguerreotype" and Exploring the Authenticity of Joseph Smith Jr.'s Photograph

 The discovery of a recently found daguerreotype purported to depict Joseph Smith Jr has ignited intrigue and hopeful anticipation among many individuals. As enthusiasts ardently endeavor to align the daguerreotype with the established image of Joseph, it becomes imperative to delve into crucial factors that shed light on this captivating subject.

Fact #1: Joseph Smith III only acknowledged one daguerreotype, and the newly found "Smith Photo" was not that image.

Shortly after Emma's death, Joseph Smith III penned a letter to John A. Robinson, husband of Mrs. Robinson, a reputable photographer, dated June 27, 1879.

Do you remember the question about father’s picture?  If so, are you and Sr J.A. still desirous of going into it?  I have intended all along to come down, but can’t see the way clear just yet.  If and so have determined to send the pictures to you for a trial, if desired….  My. step father Mr Bidamon wants to sell the pictures and with this exception and what we might sell here at the office.  You can have sole sale of them; and the exclusive manufacture of them, if we can agree as to terms, after we see whether they will copy well.  It is the only picture (real) of father in existence.  Not so many of mother’s would be wanted.  I think there is a good bit of money in it for someone; and Sr Robinson and you may as well get it as anyone.

Joseph's statement, "It is the only picture (real) of father in existence," provides compelling evidence. This remark rules out the possibility of referring to a painted portrayal since Joseph was well aware of his father sitting for multiple paintings and drawings. Instead, it strongly suggests the existence of a unique and singular image. Furthermore, Joseph's mention of the challenges involved in copying the picture aligns with the difficulties inherent in reproducing the mirrored surface of a daguerreotype.

Less than a month later, Joseph Smith III submitted an edited albumen photograph print of his father to the Library of Congress, clearly labeled as "Joseph Smith (Mormon)." This act demonstrates Joseph's unwavering determination to preserve his father's image and legacy. With a deep understanding of his father's appearance, Joseph patiently waited until after his mother's passing to reveal the image to the world, underscoring the significance he placed on sharing his father's true likeness.

One significant reason to doubt the authenticity of the newly found "Larsen Daguerreotype" as Joseph Smith Jr. is that his own son, Joseph Smith III, never acknowledged it or had it reproduced. In a letter to The Salt Lake Tribune in 1910, Joseph III mentioned a painted portrait from 1843 that closely resembled his father's daguerreotype taken around the same time by Lucian Foster.

In 1885, photographer CW Carter announced that he possessed the "only correct photograph" of Joseph Smith. This photograph was a copy of the original daguerreotype taken in 1843 and was loaned to him by Joseph Smith Jr. This supports the notion that there was only one daguerreotype of Joseph Smith and confirms their knowledge of its appearance.

Fact #2: The newly found photo looks nothing like any of Joseph's images.

 

Allow me to present some of my observations regarding the "Smith Daguerreotype." Firstly, it is evident that the depicted man in the daguerreotype has dark brown hair, which contrasts with the consensus from various accounts and a hair sample indicating that Joseph Smith likely had dark blond hair. As an artist, I often work with values, and it is interesting to note that the value of a color is often easier to discern in black and white.

Upon closer examination of the daguerreotype, it becomes apparent that the subject appears thin and lean, lacking noticeable facial fat. This is in contrast to common depictions of Joseph Smith, who was often portrayed with additional weight, particularly in the chin area. Sutcliffe Maudsley's profile drawings serve as a valuable reference in this context. Furthermore, the man in the daguerreotype displays characteristics such as a wide mouth, wide nose bridge, small deep-set eyes, tan weathered skin, and strong creases (nasolabial folds) Again this is not consistent with any depiction of Joseph. Based on these observations, it is conceivable to entertain the possibility that the individual in the daguerreotype could be Hyrum Smith, Joseph's brother, as reports suggest the existence of an undiscovered daguerreotype of Hyrum and do fit his description closer.

Let AI (Artificial Intelligence) help us measure faces using the death masks of Joseph & Hyrum.

Thanks to the remarkable advancements in AI technology, we now have the ability to replicate images with remarkable accuracy. Using an AI face tool, I embarked on a fascinating comparison. I started with a semi-generic image as the host and uploaded three images for analysis: a copy of the original daguerreotype of Joseph, Joseph's death mask, and the "Larsen Daguerreotype." I arranged them in a side-by-side comparison.

It is important to note that while the death mask can be a useful tool for facial measurements, it was created posthumously, while Joseph lay on a table or the ground. When a person passes away, blood no longer circulates, and the muscles responsible for facial structure relax. As many of you may have witnessed with a deceased loved one, this can significantly alter their appearance. Additionally, reports indicate that both Joseph and Hyrum had cotton placed in their noses to maintain shape. I conducted a similar experiment on my (live) husband and observed that it can dramatically change the width and profile of the nose. Therefore, our focus lies in comparing the bone structure, particularly the bridge and top of the nose, where thin skin allows us a glimpse of the underlying skull.

In this comparison, I present three images: the first image is derived from my Joseph Smith photo, the second image is sourced from the death mask, and the third image showcases the Larsen Daguerreotype. It is crucial to note that when replicating the death mask, the AI must make assumptions about the appearance of the eyes since it lacks information about their natural openness, the thickness of the lid, or the size of the iris. However, the AI accurately positions the eyes by triangulating landmarks on Joseph Smith's face, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the facial features.

For a more detailed examination, I conducted a comparison between the Larsen Daguerreotype and the Death Mask, focusing on the width of the bridge of the nose and the proximity of the eyes to the bridge. By closely observing these features, it becomes evident that they do not belong to the same individual. The Larsen Daguerreotype has a bridge that is almost the width of his deep-set eyes. The Death Mask Shows a more narrow bridge, with space for large more prominent eyes.

For comparison purposes, I uploaded my photo of Joseph, and to my delight, it aligns perfectly with the subject in question. The spacing and proportions are spot-on, providing strong evidence of a match. Upon closer examination, it is evident that Joseph had larger irises and a noticeable inward turn of the right eye due to esotropia. Although the AI's attempt at replicating these details is commendable, there are slight differences. Nonetheless, the overall result is impressive considering the AI's estimation.

If the Larsen Daguerreotype isn't Joseph, could it be Hyrum Smith?

Although I remain cautious in drawing definitive conclusions, it is worth noting that the Larsen Daguerreotype bears a stronger resemblance to Hyrum Smith compared to Joseph Smith. To explore this further, I employed the death mask of Hyrum to generate an AI image, following the same process as before.

It is crucial to consider that Hyrum's face may have been affected by the gunshot wound next to his nose, potentially leading to adjustments made during the creation of the death mask.

Despite lingering uncertainties, the Larsen Daguerreotype demonstrates a remarkable resemblance to Hyrum Smith rather than Joseph. The shared characteristics of eye shape, size, placement deep under the brow, and overall spacing provide a stronger alignment with Hyrum. However, it is important to continue scrutinizing the bridge of the nose for any potential inconsistencies that may warrant further investigation and analysis.

My final thoughts.

After conducting a thorough analysis using AI comparison and examining various factors, I am personally convinced that the photograph I received from my grandmother many years ago is indeed a contact print from the original daguerreotype of Joseph Smith Jr. The alignment and precision in measurements when compared to his death mask provide compelling evidence. On the other hand, the Larsen Daguerreotype bears striking dissimilarities and lacks the resemblance necessary to identify it as Joseph Smith Jr. I honestly believe it wouldn't pass a police lineup. Given these findings, it is imperative to pursue further research and investigation to unveil the true identity of the person captured in the Larsen Daguerreotype. The quest for historical accuracy continues, and it is through rigorous examination and analysis that we can separate fact from speculation.

Check back soon, I'll be back with more. Also, check my previous posts to catch up!

 

Capturing the True Likeness of Joseph Smith Jr.: Unveiling History through AI

 In the quest to unravel the true likeness of Joseph Smith Jr., the influential founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought forth unprecedented possibilities. Through a combination of historical validation, AI technology for facial analysis and reconstruction, we can now bring Joseph Smith Jr. to life in the 21st century with remarkable accuracy. This article explores the significance of the Marshall photo, the transformative power of AI, and the intriguing new daguerreotype that challenges conventional portrayals.

The Marshall Photo: Validating Joseph Smith Jr.'s Likeness

At the heart of our pursuit lies the Marshall photo—a unique and highly significant photographic image of Joseph Smith Jr. What sets this photo apart is its validation from Joseph Smith III, the Prophet's own son, as well as individuals who had personal connections with Joseph.

Joseph Smith III, the son of Joseph Smith Jr., held a deep understanding of his father's physical appearance and took great care to preserve his image for future generations. Recognizing the significance of capturing his father's likeness, Joseph Smith III safeguarded the photograph at the Library of Congress in 1879, ensuring its preservation. Furthermore, he entrusted the photographer Carter with the task of creating copies of the photograph, allowing for wider distribution and reproduction. Joseph Smith III's deliberate actions demonstrate his commitment to ensuring an accurate representation of his father's image and preserving it as a valuable historical artifact. I might note, a new daguerreotype has surfaced, suggesting it as a possible image of Joseph Smith Jr., but it is important to note that it lacks validation or replication by Joseph Smith III. A key missing element of provenance.

AI's Transformative Power: Bringing Joseph and Emma Smith to Life

Advancements in AI technology have revolutionized our ability to recreate historical figures, enabling us to envision Joseph and his wife, Emma Smith, with astonishing realism. These AI-generated images offer a captivating glimpse into how Joseph and Emma might have looked during their time, providing a deeper connection to their lives and the era they inhabited.

The following images of Joseph Smith Jr. have been generated using a copy of the original daguerreotype, resulting in the most advanced visual representations to date. The incredible precision achieved by AI in creating these images is truly astounding, showcasing the immense capabilities of this technology with pinpoint accuracy.

Behold the captivating image of Joseph Smith as a young boy, brought to life by the remarkable power of AI. Through careful analysis and reconstruction, AI technology has recreated a vivid depiction of Joseph during his formative years. Experience the innocence and curiosity that shaped the future prophet, as this AI-generated portrait unveils a glimpse into his early life and the journey that awaited him.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of Emma Hale Smith, wife of Joseph Smith, as AI breathes life into her image. Transported back in time, this AI-created portrayal showcases Emma's youthful radiance, offering a fresh perspective on her remarkable presence in history.

Delight in the union of Joseph and Emma Smith captured for the first time in a photograph, meticulously recreated by AI using their individual portraits. Experience the power of AI technology to bring historical figures together, allowing us to visualize the cherished moments of their lives.

Witness Joseph Smith Jr. engrossed in his studies and reading, brought to life through an AI-generated image.

Witnessing Joseph Smith Jr. passionately delivering a sermon within the confines of a church is a powerful sight. The remarkable capabilities of AI become evident when observing its ability to accurately rotate Joseph's face in alignment with numerous profile drawings of him. This synchronization between AI-generated images and historical depictions is truly awe-inspiring, shedding new light on the accuracy and authenticity of Joseph Smith Jr.'s portrayal through advanced technology.

By employing AI algorithms for facial analysis and comparison, we can examine the distinct facial features, proportions, and characteristics of the proposed images in comparison to the validated historical references and the only known daguerreotype of Joseph Smith Jr. This process involves feeding the AI model with a comprehensive dataset of authenticated images, including the verified photograph and other reliable sources.

The AI model can then conduct a thorough analysis, leveraging its ability to identify patterns, similarities, and differences in facial structures. It can scrutinize aspects such as facial symmetry, specific facial landmarks, unique attributes, and other defining characteristics of Joseph Smith Jr.'s appearance. This allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the new images, assessing their level of alignment or deviation from the established historical records.

Through this rigorous AI-based examination, we can challenge and disprove the authenticity of images that do not align with the verified representation of Joseph Smith Jr. This approach offers an evidence-based and scientific method to assess the validity of the proposed images, separating historical accuracy from speculative interpretations.

By exploring these new images and subjecting them to AI scrutiny, we can contribute to a more accurate and informed understanding of Joseph Smith Jr.'s likeness. This in-depth analysis can help debunk unfounded claims and ensure that the historical narrative surrounding Joseph Smith Jr. is supported by robust evidence and rigorous research.

I look forward to further discussions on this topic and AI's role in evaluating the proposed images of Joseph Smith Jr. Come back for new posts in the near future!

Unveiling Joseph Smith Jr.'s Likeness: A Journey of Artistic Discovery

In the quest to unravel the true likeness of historical figures, we often turn to art as a medium that can bridge the gap between the past and the present. One such captivating exploration revolves around Joseph Smith Jr., the visionary leader and founder of the Latter Day Saint movement. Artists and researchers alike have delved into the depths of history, utilizing their skills and expertise to shed light on Joseph's physical appearance. In this blog post, we embark on a fascinating journey, where art, photography, and documented history analysis converge to uncover the captivating story behind Joseph Smith Jr.'s likeness.

The Intriguing Work of David Lindsley:

What did Joseph Smith Really look like?

Within the realm of artistic exploration surrounding Joseph Smith Jr.'s image, the renowned artist David Lindsley has emerged as a prominent figure. Lindsley brings a fresh perspective to the table, as he firmly believes that the Marshall Photo is an authentic copy of the original daguerreotype of Joseph Smith Jr.

Through a series of enlightening videos posted on YouTube, Lindsley presents his meticulous analysis of the Marshall Photo. His conviction in the photo's authenticity stems from a close examination of its details, which closely align with historical accounts and testimonies. Lindsley's exploration challenges conventional wisdom and provides an alternative perspective that demands attention.

What makes Lindsley's work particularly intriguing is the fact that, despite not having had any direct communication with me regarding the Marshall Photo, we have both arrived at similar conclusions. As a fellow artist, I understand the dedication and skill required to master the art of portraiture. It is this shared understanding that makes Lindsley's perspectives all the more valuable and worthy of exploration.

Lindsley's analysis of the Marshall Photo reveals striking resemblances to the details described by historical witnesses who knew Joseph Smith Jr. personally. From the facial features to the nuances of expression, the photo aligns with their accounts, reinforcing the possibility that it is indeed a faithful copy of the original daguerreotype.

David Lindsley: A Fresh Lens on the Marshall Photo

Within the realm of artistic exploration surrounding Joseph Smith Jr.'s image, David Lindsley has emerged as a significant figure. Lindsley brings a fresh and illuminating perspective to the study of the Marshall Photo, firmly asserting its authenticity as a faithful copy of the original daguerreotype of Joseph Smith Jr.

Link to the 1st video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5epan2yGKI

Link to the 2nd video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFsusCWPGZg

Link to the 3rd video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTPzBQ5xDBM

 I want to emphasize that the photo of Joseph Smith Jr. in my possession (Marshall Photo) did not originate from a painting; it's actually the other way around. The painting was created based on the daguerreotype. This is why you can find certain details in the photo that are not present in the painting. Thanks to modern technology, we have been able to extract and enhance these small details, making them more visible and easily discernible.

The painting was created from the daguerreotype. That is why there are details in the photo, that aren't in the painting. With the aid of modern technology, these little details were pulled from the tiny photo and enhanced so we can see them easily. If the photo in my possession came from the famous RLDS Joseph painting, the painting would match the photo.  Details such as a filagree "S" on the cravat would be present in the photo, which it is not. This is just one detail out of a hundred differences. Artists are human and cannot copy everything perfectly, unlike the reproduction quality of a photo.

Question 1. Then how did the artist get the painting to match as close as it does?

Might I introduce the Camera Lucida. Patented in 1806. Obscura.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camera_lucida

Or the artist may have used a Camera Obscura, which dates back to the 1500s.  https://mymodernmet.com/camera-obscura/ 

As a professional artist myself, I am very aware of the tricks of the trade. Many people are surprised or disappointed to find out that artists use these aids, but they help save a lot of time and frustration. A professional painter with a high skill level would definitely have this in his arsenal. 

Question 2- Could your photo have had those tiny details painted or drawn on after it was taken?

 

No. How do we know this? Because of the clarity and level of detail of the photograph. Each time a photograph is copied, it loses precious details. Imagine using a old Xerox machine and making copies of copies, before you know it, you have black streaks and letters are missing. As per Al Thelon, a daguerreotype expert and professional photographer, The level of detail in the small photo is consistent with a "contact print" that would have been taken from an original photo. We know that the Library of Congress photo was blown up and crudely painted on. It was again photographed and then presented to the Library of Congress as Joseph's image. That is why it isn't as detailed as my image and it has lost much of the nuances of the original photo. 

 

                Question 3- How do we really know it was Joseph Smith Jr? 

                Because his son, Joseph Smith III said it was him. He copyrighted his father's image so he could resale copies of it to generate an income. He stated this in his letter to John A Robinson in 1879.

Question 4- What about the newly reported daguerreotype? Do you think it is him?

        Logic tells me no. Why? Because Joseph Smith III didn't use it or reproduce it. Nor did he ever validate it or let artists make renditions of it. Though his father died when he was a child, he knew what keepsakes his mother cherished and would definitely know the difference between a large painting and a daguerreotype of his father.  I might add, that in 1879, many people were still alive that had known Joseph and what he looked like. 

Question 5- Why isn't there a personal account of Joseph Smith Jr sitting for a daguerreotype?

There is no way he accounted for every single happening in his life. We have to look at the information that we do have.  In 1910 Joseph Smith III refers to his father's daguerreotype in a published article.  It reads -

 It fortunately happens to us that this portrait, painted in 1843, is sustained in its characteristic likeness to my father by the daguerreotype in our possession, taken the same year, I think, by an artist by the name of Lucian Foster.

Joseph Smith III is saying his father's painting looks like his father's daguerreotype. And how about in 1885, Artist Danquart Weggeland drew a drawing of Joseph where he sites "Copied from the Original Daguerreotype of Nauvoo in 1843".  He isn't referring to the painting, he refers to the photo. (photographed by CW Carter)

I hope this information was helpful and answered some of your questions. Please feel free to comment, as I am open to discussing this issue. 

So the LDS Church opened its time capsule, which reportedly contains a photograph of Joseph Smith Jr. Once opened, they realized that it was some cabinet cards, but that the images are likely ones they have seen before.  I am baffled as to why the church says they have no known image of him, yet they never fully investigated the image we brought before them. We spoke multiple times about why this image could not be a copy of a painting, as it has photographic properties that artists do not duplicate when painting. In 2009, Bill Slaughter said he would give me a written opinion about the photo, which he did not. I believe he didn't because he could not argue the facts. 

Evidence that my photo is a photo of a live person, not a painting.

Fact 1- The photo shows "Depth of Field".  Paintings, when photographed, are either all in focus or not because they are a flat image. It was not the style of artists at that time to make some features blurry and other features not. Joseph's eyes are in focus. Photographers knew they couldn't get everything in focus because of the limitations of the new lenses. They always tried to at least get the eyes in focus.

Fact 2- The "Key Lights" in Joseph's eyes are small and high set. There is also a strong shadow under his nose and chin.  This indicates that the photo was taken outside, under the sun. Skilled artists of the time did not do portraits outside, as the sun is always moving and changing the face. 

Fact 3 - The "whites are blown". This is a photographic term in which too much light comes through the lens and the whites in the photo lose definition. This also indicates the photo was taken outside.  When artists paint white in a painting, they use a variety of pastel colors to create the appearance of white, only saving white for the highlights. I challenge anyone to show me an old photograph of a painting where the whites are blown. 

Fact 4- The photo shows physical scars and a broken nose.  Both are consistent with the history of Joseph Smith Jr. He also has esotropia (inverted eye) in the eye with the scar in the eyebrow.  Artists of the time painted their clients in the most flattering light. There is NO artwork of Joseph showing any of this.

Fact 5- Joseph Smith Jr. III said that he had a photo and a portrait of his father.  He submitted it to the Library of Congress after it had been touched up. Read my blog to learn more about the copyright and how it shows that it was not a work of art. 

I ran the photograph through a photo refiner to clean it up.  This is possibly the clearest image of Joseph Smith Jr. ever. 

https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/salt-lake-temple-capstone-opened-2020

Joseph Smith Mystery Solved by ABC4 News

Joseph Smith Photo Mystery by ABC4 News

What did Joseph really look like?

 
Below is a copy of the Unedited Photo of Joseph Smith; however, I did edit this copy by increasing the contrast, sharpening the details, trimming the top slightly to fit a more standard print frame, and, of course, adding lettering.
.

Joseph Smith Junior copied from his daguerreotype.

It was a very interesting process working in Photoshop; I found so many more hidden details in the Unedited Photograph.  Each time I approached a new section of the picture, I found something new I hadn't seen before. It was exciting, even though reworking the colorized image was tedious and complex.  I didn't want the standard black-and-white photo with flesh tone applied.  I felt like I had to rely on my artistic skills to bring him to life the best I could, not with oil paint but with pixels.  While the 2nd generation photo of Joseph has more details than any other image, unfortunately, certain particulars are only partially visible and others completely lost because of the daguerreotype reflection and paper stippling. For instance, only the top of his watch fob is visible, but the direction of the chain quickly disappears.

Note the orange-highlighted beginning of what appears to be a watch fob.

What I thought was a filigree "S" cravat pin in gold actually appears to be an embroidered "S" button embellishment.  Once I found the small ribbon edge around the octagon medallion, I suddenly could see the ruffled edges of what appeared to be lace on his cravat.

With the contrast amped up, I added a few highlights to direct the eyes to the button and ruffles.

Next, what I thought was a button on his vest was not just a button but possibly a military insignia with a star above it.  I wondered if there was possibly a ribbon attached to it, but without certainty, I did not add it.  I searched the internet for pictures of his Lieutenant General insignia but could only find tiny artist renditions of it.  They did appear similar, but nothing exact.  If anyone knows anything more about this metal, please let me know.

Last, was the discovery of what appears to be an embroidered ribbon, perhaps a black mourning ribbon.  I wondered if it was just a pattern in the fabric that was on the lapel of the jacket, but the light shadow under the bow makes me believe it is sitting on top of the fabric but stitched in. The ornamental edging of the buttonhole appears to be tied into the design.  Again, if anyone knows more about Joseph's clothing and can identify anything I have posted, please let me know at: josephsmithjr2009@hotmail.com.

P.S. I just have to add one more thing.  Again, none of these tiny, tiny details show up in any of the artwork (i.e., RLDS painting) of Joseph.  The Library of Congress edited albumen print of Joseph does show a faint indication of a fob and button.   Proof that these two images are tied together.  Leave it to a micro-scanner and digital files that can have the contrast/lighting worked with to bring out these hidden treasures.