Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

Spring Photographic History Auction

Sat, May 3, 2025 01:00PM EDT
  2025-05-03 13:00:00 2025-05-03 13:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : Spring Photographic History Auction https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/spring-photographic-history-auction-19217
Raw, rare, and unforgettable—this is 19th- and early 20th-century photography at its best. Vernacular portraits, Native American warriors, African American resilience, Mormon pioneers, Western frontier families, and stark post-mortem scenes. Daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, tintypes, CDVs, and cabinet cards that capture real life without filters. Every image tells a story of survival, pride, and change. A museum-worthy collection for those who know real American history when they see it.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 264

Four CDVs of Confederate Generals

Estimate: $200 - $300
Starting Bid
$100

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Group of four cartes de visite depicting prominent Confederate leaders, including both individual and composite portraits. The standout piece is a boldly designed composite CDV featuring General Robert E. Lee at center, surrounded by eight other high-ranking generals of the Army of Northern Virginia: James Longstreet, P.G.T. Beauregard, John C. Breckinridge, Fitzhugh Lee, A.P. Hill, Richard S. Ewell, and others. The arrangement is stylized with decorative labels for each name and title, and the portraits are framed with scalloped borders, likely issued during or shortly after the war as a popular souvenir item.

Also included is a albumen CDV of General Jubal A. Early, presented in a stark bust view against a plain background, with sharp detailing in the beard and uniform. The third image features General G.T. Beauregard in a three-quarter-length pose, dressed in a double-breasted frock coat, arms folded in a defiant stance, with excellent tonal contrast and presence. The final CDV shows General G.W. Smith in civilian dress, standing in an opulent studio setting with classical column backdrop, evoking a statesman-like demeanor. Both Beauregard and Smith have Anthony back marks.

A desirable set for collectors of Confederate material, notable not only for content but also for the inclusion of an uncommon composite view and two full-figure portraits with strong clarity. All images are clean and well-preserved with good contrast and typical light handling wear.

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