A bust-length studio portrait albumen CDV. New York: C.D. Fredricks & Co., 587 Broadway. Photographer's imprint to mount verso. Period ink signature on the lower margin of the mount reads: "Jno: B. McIntosh." Additional period pencil identification and the word "Signed" appear on the verso.

John Baillie McIntosh (1829-88) was a distinguished Union cavalry general during the Civil War. Interestingly, he was the brother of Confederate Gen. James M. McIntosh, who was killed at the Battle of Pea Ridge. John McIntosh began his service as a second lieutenant in the 2nd U.S. Cavalry before rising to command the 3rd Pennsylvania Cavalry.

McIntosh is best remembered for his leadership at the Battle of Gettysburg, where his brigade played a pivotal role in repelling J.E.B. Stuart’s cavalry at East Cavalry Field. He continued to lead with distinction through the Overland Campaign and into the Shenandoah Valley. His active field service ended at the Battle of Opequon (Third Winchester) on 19 September 1864, where he sustained a severe wound that resulted in the amputation of his right leg. He received a brevet promotion to major general for his gallantry in that engagement.

This piece is important because it merges a Gettysburg command pedigree with the rare, personal touch of a period signature. It represents both the tactical brilliance of the Union cavalry and the profound personal sacrifices made by those who led it.

[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Photography, Early Photography, Historic Photography, Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, Tintypes, Cased Images, Union Cases, Albumen Photographs, CDVs, Carte de Visites, Cartes de Visite, Carte-de-visite, Cartes-de-visite, CDV, Cabinet Cards, Stereoviews, Stereocards]

The image exhibits strong contrast and clarity. The mount shows light edge wear and minor surface soiling consistent with age. The signature remains dark and highly legible.