American writer (1842-c.1914) best known for his vivid short stories (including the classic 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge') and his satirical 'The Devil's Dictionary.' In 1913, while traveling with Pancho Villa's troops during the Mexican Revolution, Bierce disappeared; his ultimate fate remains a mystery. Rare matte-finish 4 x 5.5 photo of the author by Prince of Washington, D.C., affixed to its original 6 x 8 mount, signed on the mount in ink, "Ambrose Bierce—1896," and signed and inscribed on the reverse, "Dear Mr. Messinger, This is the animal as he was—I've no picture of him as he is. Sincerely yours, A.B., Washington, D., November 24, 1908." In fine condition, with a few light scuffs on the reverse. Bierce is extremely rare in signed photos, this being an extraordinary example.