“A Casual Affair” 

Description

“A Casual Affair” 

Striking and uncommon Civil War carte de visite featuring three Union officers posed in a relaxed yet confident studio grouping. Rather than the usual rigid single portrait, this image presents a narrative composition: two officers seated with legs casually extended, while a third stands centered between them, hand at his waist. The informal posture lends the photograph an almost candid quality rarely seen in wartime studio work. 

All three wear officer’s frock coats with visible cuff and shoulder details, suggesting company- or field-grade rank. The balanced triangular arrangement enhances the visual appeal, while the strong tonal clarity preserves fine uniform detail. 

Officer group images are considerably scarcer than individual views, and examples with such natural, confident posing. 

Inventory Number: CDV 600