Description

This sixth plate ambrotype depicts a classically posed Confederate soldier who is seated with one arm resting on a table.  The image was taken by a talented photographer who understood how to properly add color.  The soldier’s battle shirt has a nice tint to it, which was emphasized by how the photographer added paint to the emulsion side.  The subject has just the right amount of color to enhance his cheeks.  The kepi has a shiny rain cover that stands out due to light reflection.  The background emulsion exhibits a pleasing color that enhances the overall look of the image.  The outfit is completed by a black tie under the collar and a pocket with handkerchief.  As a bonus, the image has been corrected using a technique to make the image appear as if from life (the right arm is the right arm, for example).  The image glass has been flipped so that the emulsion side of the image is on the back side of the front piece of glass and the varnish used to make the image positive is on the back side of a second piece of glass.  Small pieces of paperboard have been added at the corners to keep the two pieces of glass apart.  This technique is familiarly known as a Cutting’s patent image.  The result of this photographer’s craft is a beautiful portrait of a Confederate soldier which has been enhanced by the knowledgeable use of color.  It is housed in a complete leatherette case.