This cabinet photograph is hand dated 1888 and was therefore taken soon after Sophia Rogerson, sister of the Southwell Brothers, bought the Boning and Small photographic studio from Charles Small's widow in 1888. She had been situated at 10, Verulam Place, St Leonard's-on-Sea, the address of this studio, since at least 1871, appearing there in the census of that year when her occupation was given as 'Artist'. It seems probable she trained in the art of photography as a young widow needing to earn her own living whilst living at 16, Baker Street, the location of her brothers' studio. She is listed as head of household at this address in the 1861 census.

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