Beautiful, cased image of young woman from famous Southern photographers

This beautiful portrait is a small oval albumen print that has been expertly tinted and detailed. This image in the case measures 3” x 3.5” and is covered with glass and held together with an oval copper frame. It is encased in an unusual dark blue velvet case. Inside of case opposite the photo is the photographer’s imprint on silk lining. There is some loss of the silk lining. The photographers were Bendann Brothers.

Two German Jewish immigrants, Daniel and David Bendann, in their teenage years, worked under well-known photographer Jesse Whitehurst. After learning the art of photography, they graduated from his tutelage and moved to Baltimore, Maryland, to open a Whitehurst studio.

By the late 1850s, the brothers made the bold move of breaking away from their teacher to open their own studio called “Bendann Brothers,” first in Richmond and later in Baltimore (see pictures). Initially using the daguerreotype process—the most cutting-edge photographic technology of the time—the Bendann brothers quickly gained fame for their portrait photography.

They built up a clientele that included presidents, actors, and everyday citizens. Though they ended up in Baltimore for most of the Civil War, their life’s work involved photographing many southerners—including well-known Confederate officers.

This is a gorgeous piece, and I am sure the young lady was well-to-do to have this type of hand-colored image in such an exquisite case. It is one of the nicest I’ve seen and being done by such famous photographers as well.

Throughout history, war has been a constant presence, shaping civilizations and societies. From the earliest days of humanity, conflict has persisted in various forms, and based on historical patterns, it is likely to continue in some manner. This ongoing reality has given rise to a deep fascination among historians and collectors who seek to understand the past through the tangible remnants left behind, i.e. uniforms, guns, swords, artillery.

While significant attention is given to weapons and military gear, the everyday items used by soldiers frequently go unnoticed. Simple objects like forks, spoons, cups, dishes, pots, and knives played an essential role in a soldier’s daily life. These items were as precious to the individual as their weapon, serving practical needs and providing comfort amidst the hardships of war. I myself have always appreciated their importance in showing a complete representation of a collection.   Bob