W.T. Sherman and his Generals, Mammoth Plate Albumen

Mammoth plate albumen photograph, Sherman and his Generals. Mathew Brady: Washington DC, 1865. Visible image approx. 17.5 x 13.25 in (447 x 336 mm), in original mount 24 x 19 in. (608 x 484 mm). Titled in gothic font to lower margin with each general identified.

After the formal conclusion of the War, Sherman marched his 60,000 men over 250 miles to attend the Grand Review of the Armies in Washington DC, which took place on the 23rd and 24th of May 1865. For the portrait, Brady enthusiastically scheduled an afternoon session and invited Sherman's staff, though Sherman himself was skeptical that the officers would still be in Washington, DC. All except Francis P. Blair arrived for the sitting, who was separately photographed later. Brady used both images to create an amalgamated, complete picture.

A non-composite picture (lacking Blair) with the same imprint and caption font (blackletter) is held by the National Portrait Gallery (NPG.94.97). This and the image offered here were issued in 1865, predating the publication of Photographic Views of Sherman's Campaign in 1866 which includes the Brady image with a George N. Barnard imprint and different caption font. The Barnard prints constitute the majority of extant copies. Carte de visite copies are also known.
Condition Report: Photograph retains rich tones and presents very well. The mount was trimmed slightly at the bottom edge. Remnants of glue on reverse side of mount.