2004-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004
An early silverprint, 3 x 4" mounted to 5 x 7" overall, with wonderful family association. This early portrait of Robert E. Lee, most likely after a daguerreotype about the time of his service in the Mexican War, is identified by his daughter Mary Custis Lee below the photograph and inscribed on the verso "General Robert E. Lee C.S.A. From his Daughter Mary Custis Lee, to her Cousin Morris Murray. Cannes(?), April 5, 1912." Mary Custis Lee, who shared her mother's name, was the second of seven children born to the General and the great, granddaughter of Martha Washington. Mary (1835-1918), the last surviving of the Lee kids, was called on to help her mother pack when forced to leave the family home at Arlington – spending a full year "behind enemy lines." She never married but enjoyed the company of numerous suitors including JEB Stuart while he was at West Point. A really nice item. Relatively common, cartes of Lee bring well above $1,000... this unique portrait from his beloved daughter should certainly be worth the estimate.
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.