Carte de Visite of Lt. Gen. Winfield Scott by Mathew Brady, 1861 / SOLD

Description

Carte de Visite of Lt. Gen. Winfield Scott by Mathew Brady, 1861

A fine Civil War–era CDV photograph of Lieutenant General Winfield Scott (1786–1866), America’s longest-serving general, famed hero of the War of 1812 and the Mexican War, and General-in-Chief of the U.S. Army at the outbreak of the Civil War. The image, taken by renowned photographer Mathew B. Brady, depicts the aged commander seated in uniform with his sword, epaulettes, and double-breasted frock coat, a commanding yet solemn presence. The mount is printed “LT. GEN’L WINFIELD SCOTT. Entered according to the act of Congress in the year 1861 by M. B. Brady, in the Clerk’s office of the District Court of the District of Columbia.” This identifies the photograph as one of Brady’s copyrighted wartime productions, part of the early commercial CDV market catering to the Union public’s demand for portraits of military leaders. Condition is very good, showing only light toning and edge wear consistent with age. The image retains strong contrast and detail, with Scott clearly identifiable. Historical Note: Winfield Scott, known as “Old Fuss and Feathers” for his strict discipline and ceremonial precision, was 75 years old when the Civil War began. Though too infirm for active field command, he authored the famous “Anaconda Plan,” envisioning a naval blockade and control of the Mississippi River to strangle the Confederacy—an approach that proved prophetic in the Union victory. A desirable wartime Brady CDV of one of America’s most important military figures, linking the War of 1812, the Mexican War, and the dawn of the Civil War.

Inventory Number: CDV 589