Civil War Soldier-Carved Bone Cravat Slide “Union for Ever” / SOLD

Description

Civil War Soldier-Carved Bone Cravat Slide

“Union for Ever”

 

Civil War–era carved bone cravat slide (padbat), featuring a finely hand-incised American eagle above the patriotic inscription “UNION FOR EVER.” The design is framed by simple carved borders and small star motifs, all executed in the unmistakable folk-art style associated with soldier handiwork.

 

Carved from a single piece of bone, the reverse retains its original integral loop, allowing the slide to be worn with a cravat or neckerchief. Surface wear, age toning, and small tool marks are consistent with period manufacture and prolonged handling, lending strong authenticity to the piece.

 

Patriotic bone carvings such as this were often created by soldiers during idle moments in camp, serving as personal expressions of loyalty, morale, and identity. Examples with clear political slogans—especially “Union for Ever”—are highly desirable and increasingly scarce.

 

A compelling piece of Civil War soldier folk art, ideal for collectors of personal items, patriotic material culture, or carved bone relics of the period.

 

Inventory Number: MIS 363