YOUNG VIRGINIA CONFEDERATE TAKEN SEPTEMBER 2, 1862

YOUNG VIRGINIA CONFEDERATE TAKEN SEPTEMBER 2, 1862

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$2,750.00

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Item Code: 1138-1889

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This ninth-plate ruby ambrotype shows a Confederate soldier sporting a large bowtie cravat and wearing a black-trimmed gray kepi and battle shirt, the latter clearly showing two-piece Virginia buttons. This comes from the collection of the late Bill Turner, noted Virginia collector and dealer, and preserves in the back of the case a legible period note reading, “taken by B.L. McConnell Sept 2 1862.” We have not located the photographer, but he was very likely a Virginian given the soldier’s buttons and Bill’s collecting interest. It is possible that he worked for a larger firm, was in a partnership, or as an itinerant ambrotypist, but the clarity, resolution and tones of the image show some talent.

The subject is clean-shaven and the photographer has tinted his cheeks slightly. The shirt has a broad collar or short cape, lying flat on his shoulder and showing a border using a black strip with light colored or gilt edges. The large white, roll-over collar of his regular shirt shows around his neck, though concealed somewhat at the front by that wonderful black cravat.

The case is a black thermoplastic union case with raised geometric motifs with floral corners in excellent condition. The oval mat is profusely decorated. The frame and glass are in place. The date on the note is interesting and suggestive- just two weeks before the Battle of Antietam. The battle shirt and cleanliness of the uniform suggest our man is a recent recruit. Locating the photographer might be the first step in filling out his story.  [sr] [ph:m]

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