LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2007 June Civil War Grand Format Auction #663  / 

72204

Gen William Mahone Photograph & Family Photos

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:2,000.00 USD Estimated At:8,000.00 - 12,000.00 USD
Gen William Mahone Photograph & Family Photos
<B>Confederate General William Mahone Portrait, Family Photos, and Small Cup </B></I> William Mahone married Otelia Butler on February 8, 1855. Together they had 13 children, only three of whom would survive until adulthood. This grouping of five photographs of that family, supplemented by a small enameled drinking cup belonging to the family give a rare insight into the family of the man who was one of the most celebrated generals of the Civil War.<BR><BR>The first photograph is an albumen print of William Mahone himself. Measuring approximately 4” x 6” this photograph is taken years after the Civil War as Mahone's trademark beard has obviously grayed considerably. He strikes a stoic pose in a nice vested suit with a gold watch chain dangling from his vest.<BR><BR>The remainder of the photographs concerns Mahone's family. The first is a carte de visite of Mahone's wife Otelia and one of their daughters. The name 'Otelia Mahone' is written on the reverse in pencil. Two of the other photographs are of Mahone's sons in cadet military uniform and are partially hand-tinted. Both measure 4” x 6” with all the photographs being in very good condition.<BR><BR>The last photograph is a daguerreotype of one of the Mahone daughters in death, also hand-tinted. The poignant daguerreotype shows the child lying with a small bouquet of flowers in her hand. The photograph is nicely cased in its gutta percha case and copper frame inside with the image in pristine condition. Images such as these were common during the period as families were desirous of having the photographs as a keepsake, a reminder of the departed.<BR><BR>The remaining item is a small multi-colored, enameled drinking cup. Approximately 2” tall and 2” in diameter at the top, this tiny cup is dated 1884 as hallmarked in the base with a maker's mark as well. The cup is Imperial Russian silver in the Pan-Slavic style. The enamel remains in excellent condition.<BR><BR>These photographs along with the small cup are heartfelt reminders of the personal life of a great soldier and a prominent Southern family.<BR><BR> Provenance: The Tharpe Collection of American Military History*****<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Miscellaneous Collectibles, Smal (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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