LEE, Robert E. (1807-1870). Photograph signed ("R E Lee"), [Minnis and Cowell, Richmond, c.1862].

Mounted albumen photograph, 185 x135mm (oval), and signed on the 230 x 175mm irregularly-cut mount (uneven toning to emulsion, mount soiled and toned); matted and framed.

A striking photograph of Lee in Confederate uniform, reputed to be the only photograph of Lee taken in the field. This is an early generation, large-format portrait of Lee "copied in a greater variety of forms and elaborations than any other. It was undoubtedly the first one taken after the war opened, and it became available at a time when the press and public were hungry for a contemporary likeness of General Lee." Meredith, The Face of Robert E. Lee, p. 31. Provenance: William E. Simon – by descent to the consignor.