May Vernacular Photo History Auction
Wed, May 6, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 400
CDV Gen. Grant Jr. “Smallest Man Living” Barnum
Estimate: $100 - $200
Starting Bid
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $5 |
| $100 | $10 |
| $200 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,500 |
Carte de visite portrait of Gen. Grant Jr., identified as “The Smallest Man Living.” The young performer stands in a studio interior wearing a small military-style uniform and cap while holding a walking stick. A patterned carpet and covered table appear in the background.
Printed text on the reverse identifies the sitter: “GEN. GRANT, Jr. THE SMALLEST MAN LIVING, 12 Years old, 23 ins. high, and weighs 18 1-2 lbs. As appeared at Barnum’s Museum, New York. Photo. by Stacy, 691 Broadway.” Such portraits were produced as collectible souvenirs connected with exhibitions at Barnum’s American Museum during the period.
Carte de visite format with printed identification text on the reverse.
Printed text on the reverse identifies the sitter: “GEN. GRANT, Jr. THE SMALLEST MAN LIVING, 12 Years old, 23 ins. high, and weighs 18 1-2 lbs. As appeared at Barnum’s Museum, New York. Photo. by Stacy, 691 Broadway.” Such portraits were produced as collectible souvenirs connected with exhibitions at Barnum’s American Museum during the period.
Carte de visite format with printed identification text on the reverse.
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