Large-format salted paper or early albumen print in an oval format mounted to heavy card. Uncredited, likely New York City or upstate New York, ca. 1860 - 1861. Mount measures approx. 8 x 10 in.; image oval approx. 6 1/2 x 8 1/2 in.

A tour de force of antebellum martial display, presenting a seated officer of the 68th New York State Militia surrounded by his full panoply of equestrian and personal arms. The officer poses three-quarters length with mutton-chop sideburns, sporting a double-breasted field officer's coat with bullion epaulettes, sash, and a patent leather belt secured by an ornate wreathed New York State plate. Flanking his chair is an extraordinary arsenal, including a pair of Colt Model 1851 Navy percussion revolvers, a circa 1840s militia officer’s sword featuring an elaborate knight's head pommel, spread-winged eagle counterguard, and gilt brass scabbard, a tall dress shako with starburst plate and white plume, and full mounted officer’s horse furniture featuring an eagle-embossed heart breastplate, bridle, and leather saddle valise distinctly stenciled "68".

Large-format paper prints exhibiting this concentration of identified regimental cavalry arms and accoutrements stand as impressive documentation of a nation headed towards cataclysmic conflict. 

[Civil War, New York State Militia, 68th NY, 68th New York, Colt 1851 Navy, Colt Revolver, Knights Head Sword, Militia Sword, Shako, Horse Equipage, Saddle Valise, New York Belt Plate, Salt Print, Albumen Print, Early War, Martial Americana]

Very good condition. The print displays rich chocolate tones with outstanding clarity. The card mount is sturdy, and exhibits light handling wear, faint corner softening, and subtle age toning.