2 1/2 x 3 7/8 in. tintype (crazing to surface of plate). Housed under mat, glass, and preserver, no case. 

Studio portrait of an African American private wearing a regulation cavalry shell jacket trimmed in yellow and carrying an M1860 light cavalry saber. The subject wears a kepi with brass insignia, and stands before a unique, painted canvas backdrop featuring a row of military tents along the left side. 

Six regiments of African American cavalry were raised during the war, including: the 1st at Camp Hamilton, VA; the 2nd at Fort Monroe, VA; the 3rd at Vicksburg from the 1st Mississippi Cavalry (African Descent); the 4th from the 1st Corps d'Afrique Cavalry at New Orleans, LA; the 5th and the 6th at Camp Nelson, KY.