1866 General Tom Thumb Carte de Visite with 2 cent Civil War Tax Stamp

Description: Exploring the Significance and Detail of the 1866 General Tom Thumb Carte de Visite. Description:This Carte de Visite (CDV) is a fascinating artifact, featuring the iconic General Tom Thumb and his wife, Lavinia Warren, captured by the lens of the renowned Mathew Brady. The presence of a Civil War Revenue Tax Stamp hints at its distribution around 1866, although the CDV's design—marked by dual border lines and specific dimensions—suggests it was crafted between 1863 and 1864. Its dimensions are 2 3/8 x 4 inches, standard for the period yet unique in its preservation. Front Narrative:The CDV showcases an albumen print, a popular photographic medium of the time, known for its clarity and durability. The inscription, “Mr & Mrs. General Tom Thumb Entered according to an Act of Congress in the year 1863 by M.B. Brady in the Clerks Office of the District Court for the So. District of New York,” provides a legal earmark of its creation, adding to its authenticity and historical value. The careful placement of embossed stamps by E. & H.T. Anthony on the lower edges further signifies the publisher’s pride and craftsmanship. Backside Narrative:On the reverse, personal notes “Compliments of Charles S. Stratton,” and “Compliments of Lavinia Warren Stratton,” offer a direct connection to the Strattons, lending a personal touch to this historical piece. The mention of “Brady” as the photographer places this CDV among the esteemed works of Mathew Brady, a figure synonymous with 19th-century American photography, particularly for his Civil War coverage and notable portraits. The publication by E. & H.T. Anthony, a pivotal entity in the photographic industry, underscores the CDV's significance and the Strattons' status. General Tom Thumb, P.T. Barnum Star Performer:General Tom Thumb, born Charles Sherwood Stratton, emerged as a luminary in entertainment under the guidance of P.T. Barnum. From a young age, Stratton captivated audiences worldwide with his performances, transcending the limitations imposed by his stature to achieve unparalleled fame and fortune. His marriage to Lavinia Warren, a fellow performer and little person, was a celebrated union, drawing attention and admiration. Their lives, emblematic of overcoming adversity, celebrated the diversity of human experience and left a lasting legacy on the entertainment world and beyond. This CDV is not just a photographic memory but a testament to an era of spectacle, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of two remarkable individuals. It stands as a piece of cultural heritage, embodying the narratives of those who defied the ordinary and etched their stories in the annals of history.

Price: 85 USD

Location: Benicia, California

End Time: 2024-12-20T03:43:41.000Z

Shipping Cost: 9.05 USD