Sixth-plate half-length studio portrait relievo ambrotype. [South Carolina], circa 1850s. Full leatherette case. 

Portrait of a South Carolina militiaman in full uniform and accouterment. Clad in a fine dark uniform with two rows of brass buttons, he sits next to a table on which was placed his shako. This shako is decorated with a plume of tall feathers. Two prominent brass devices help narrow down his unit: a hunting horn signifies his company was trained in infantry tactics, and a beautiful palmetto tree places them squarely within the confines of South Carolina. His two-piece tongue and wreath-style buckle no doubt features the state seal, although it was obscured by gold gilt. 

This image was done in the very early relievo style. An examination of the plate suggests it was made in the late 1850s, when ambrotypes had their moment in the sun. This is an excellent and early example of southern photography made in the cradle of secession.

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