This clear tintype shows an armed corporal of New York’s National Guard in a version of the state’s 1863 pattern uniform. The state re-designated its militia as the National Guard State of New York (NGSNY) and changed their distinctive jacket in 1863 from the 8-button volunteer jacket trimmed in blue to a 9-button jacket with more extensive white piping. In this case, the unit decided to add a placket to the cuff as well. This corporal wears a low crown kepi with a small brass NY state seal pinned to the front and a two-digit regimental number low on the front of the cap (possibly a 22 or 23.) His waist belt bears his company letter, “G,” dark trousers with a light stripe, and he holds what may be an 1816 converted musket with fixed bayonet at his side.

The tin has some slight bends at upper right that are visible at some angles and a little spotting across the musket, just below the nose cap, and onto the soldier’s chest, but the image has nice clarity. The tintype is housed in a period thermoplastic frame that has nice, raised geometric and floral border motifs, and is in very good condition with just a minor corner chip at lower left. The photo has its glass, mat and brass frame intact. The photographer has used a painted backdrop showing a bucolic landscape of trees, water, rocks and flowers behind standing soldier. At bottom, behind his feet, may be seen the base of the stand with neck brace used to help him keep steady for the camera. The thermoplastic frame is much scarcer than the union cases and shows off the photograph very nicely.  [sr]

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