An individual full-length standing studio portrait albumen CDV, [ca. 1861-1863]. The photograph is presented on a plain mount with a blank verso.

A visually arresting full-length portrait of a private from the elite 7th New York State Militia. Standing on a patterned studio floor against a neutral backdrop, the soldier is captured in full field gear, presenting a vigilant posture as he grips his Springfield rifled-musket. The image perfectly illustrates the highly distinct, early-war appearance of this celebrated regiment, providing an exceptional study of their specialized field equipment and distinctive uniform.

The 7th New York State Militia was a premier "silk-stocking" regiment based in Manhattan, composed largely of New York City's social elite. While most of the volunteer Union army donned standard federal blue, the 7th stubbornly retained its distinctive prewar gray kepis and matching uniforms accented with sharp black trim. Summoned to service in April 1861, the regiment rushed south to secure the vulnerable capital against secessionist forces immediately following the fall of Fort Sumter. They were called up again during the summer of 1863, returning to Manhattan to restore order and protect the city during the violent New York City draft riots.

This portrait serves as a textbook example of Civil War field gear configuration. Eschewing the cumbersome and uncomfortable standard knapsack, this private has opted to roll his personal belongings into a tight blanket roll, worn over his shoulder as a "horse collar." While his blanket roll remains lean, his canvas haversack appears stuffed full of rations and campaign necessities. He wears a striking white buff leather belt with a prominent plate, securing his cap pouch and a smooth-side canteen slung over his hip, capturing the raw, immediate reality of a militia soldier stepping onto the national stage.

This image was one of Rick's favorites because it perfectly captures the elite, aristocratic character of Manhattan's "silk-stocking" regiment through a rare, artistic study of early-war gray uniforms and non-regulation field gear. It is a singular example of exactly the type of image Rick sought after his entire collecting career. 

The albumen surface exhibits a deep, pleasing tonality with sharp contrast and clarity. There is only minor surface wear and age-related foxing to the margins, both consistent with the typical handling of period photography.