Description
This pair of Union soldier images is exceptional in every way. They were likely taken at the same sitting by the same photographer, as the posing and composition are identical. Both have gilt applied in the same manner, with the belt plate outlined and the “US” highlighted. Both are wearing identical style hats and frock coats. Both have two leather shoulder straps, one of which is adorned with an eagle breastplate. Both have a cap box on the belt. The images are identically matted and are housed in one thermoplastic case. The two men are likely brothers but could also be cousins or good friends.
The content of each image is highly desirable. The man on the left is quadruple armed with a musket, bayonet, knife, and Colt style pistol. The knife handle appears to be bone with a knight’s helmet pommel which is visible above the soldier’s left hand. The musket is a Remington-Maynard 1816/1822 conversion which allowed for the use of the Maynard tape priming system. Under magnification the top of the tape primer door can be seen under the hammer. These conversions added a long-range rear sight which can also be seen in the image, as the muskets were also rifled. The lock screws are held in place by the 1816 style escutcheon which is clearly visible on the side of the musket. Removing the mat reveals the butt of the musket, which is correct for the Model 1816. The musket also has the shoulder strap attached. Visible under magnification is a nice rarity. A fly has landed on the soldier’s upper left arm! As the image is reversed, this would appear as his right arm.
The man on the right is triple armed with the same conversion musket, bayonet, and Colt style pistol in his belt. Under magnification a piece of string or lint can be seen on his left shoulder near the sleeve seam, and another spot could also be a fly, although it is not conclusive.
The two images are in mint condition, crystal clear and basically flawless. The floral pattern thermoplastic case is in nice condition with only a small flea bite chip on one corner. A better pair of Union images would be hard to find. You may never have another chance to own an image with a fly in it, particularly with superb content!
