Quarterplate refers to a photographic negative or print format measuring 31/4 x 41/4 inches, which is exactly one-quarter the size of a full plate (81/2 x 61/2 inches). This format was widely used in early photography for portraiture, fieldwork, and small-format studio images.
Quarterplate negatives allowed photographers to produce detailed images with relatively compact equipment and economical use of materials. Even today, understanding historical formats like the quarterplate is important for collectors, archivists, and those working with vintage photographic processes.