Lot 186

Identified Black African American Civil War Tintype of Solder and Wife

Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000

Bid Increments

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A historically significant lot features two sixth plate tintypes and one carte de visite (CDV) of William Robinson, an identified African American Civil War soldier from Everett, Massachusetts. The collection offers a rare and invaluable glimpse into the life of an African American soldier during the Civil War era and his subsequent civilian life. The tintypes are housed in a single thermoplastic case.

Tintype 1: A striking portrait of William Robinson in his Union Army uniform. The tintype shows Robinson seated with a dignified expression, wearing a dark frock coat with brass buttons and a kepi hat. The tintype exhibits crazing and some flaking to the emulsion, indicating it may not have been varnished, yet the image remains an evocative and powerful testament to his service. With noticeable crazing and flaking to the emulsion, though the image is still visible and retains much of its historical impact.

Tintype 2: A portrait of William Robinson's wife, elegantly dressed and seated beside a table. This image offers a poignant connection to Robinson's personal life, showcasing the quiet strength and dignity of his spouse.

CDV: The carte de visite features a full-length standing portrait of William Robinson in civilian attire, taken by George M. Lovell of Southbridge, Massachusetts. The reverse of the CDV is inscribed with Robinson's address, "38 Tileston St, Everett, Mass," providing a clear identification and further context to the images.

This collection is not only a visual record of an African American soldier who fought in the Civil War but also a rare representation of his life before and after the war. Such collections are exceedingly rare, making this lot a prized addition to any collection focused on African American history, Civil War memorabilia, or 19th-century photography.

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