Abraham and Tad Lincoln, Half-plate, Albumen Photograph, Alexander Gardner

Description

Abraham and Tad Lincoln are pictured in a half-plate albumen photograph, taken in February 1865. Though more common in the carte-de-visite size, this full plate example is quite impactful. 

Lincoln is shown seated, with one elbow upon a table against which Tad leans. This variant has a pillar and curtain background painted in, that also depicts the unfinished Washington Monument in the distance. Alexander Gardner took this photo in Feb. 1865. The caption claims that this was Lincoln’s “Last Photograph.”  That was incorrect, perhaps a marketing ploy to spur sales.

An excellent example; image dark and clear; unusual for having the original full, untrimmed mount.

(Lincoln: Photograph)  Gardner, Alexander. Half-Plate Albumen Photograph:  Printed caption “President Lincoln and His Son Thaddeus [sic]. / The Last Photograph the President Sat For. / Published by G. F. Bouve & Co,”¦Boston. 5-7/8″ x 8-5/16″ image; 10-1/2” x 13-5/8″ overall. (O-114).