Exceptional Hand-Painted Naval Ambrotype of Lt. John S. Watson.

Quarter plate hand-painted ambrotype. Housed in book-style blue velvet case with flap closure with brass clasp. Modern typed note with identification included in case.

Lt. John S. Watson is captured in a studio setting seated in a chair draped in brocade and red velvet. Captured at three-quarters length, his head is turned to face the camera. He wears his double-breasted frock coat with his lieutenant’s shoulder straps visible. His sleeves bear three buttons and a single five-pointed star. His cap bears the naval hat insignia of a silver bullion anchor surrounded by gold bullion laurels. His belt and buckle are visible beyond his saber, nestled in his bent arm.

The ambrotype displays some of the finest hand-coloring that we have encountered. The officer's hair and skin are rendered with subtlety and detail not typically seen in cased images. Each aspect of his uniform has been meticulously colored and enhanced with gilt details. The case is also quite fine, possibly indicating that the subject came from a wealthy background.



[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Daguerreotype, Ambrotype, Tintype, CDV, Albumen, carte-de-visite, Salt print, Cabinet Card] [Civil War, Union, Confederate]