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Matched Pair Half-Plate Ambrotypes of Boston National Lancers, with earlier 1850 dated and inscribed silver shooting award. Two absolutely breathtaking tinted full length portraits of unknown enlisted men wearing the exquisite uniform of Boston's socially elite National Lancers, circa 1855. Formed in 1836, the lancers were resplendent in scarlet coatee trimmed in gold with Polish inspired czapka epitomizing the glory of Napoleon's famed light cavalry. Wildly expensive to outfit and maintain, only the National Lancers of antebellum Boston claimed the moniker among the array of prominent militia formations in the United States. A cadre of National Lancers later served in the 1st Massachusetts Cavalry during the Civil War and the elite corps still existed in the 1870's. Note the lancers oval "US" belt plates worn on white buff leather. The unseen sabers were specially made by Ames after the M1833 dragoon model. The companion silver shooting medallion measures 2 3/8 inches in diameter and depicts a mounted lancer with the motto Union Liberty and the Laws. The reverse is inscribed: National Lancers to Wm. Fullick 2nd Best Shot at Target Practice, October 29, 1850. William Fullick, who had no subsequent service in the Civil War is probably one of the subject ambrotypes, but which one is unknown.
Cowan's Historical Americana l, November 9, 1996 Both plates are pristine except for minor browning in the field with occasional crazing, overall EXC early ambrotypes of important militia subject matter. Housed in fine brown "Country Life" (K-8) gutta percha case. ImagesClick on thumbnails to see larger images: 
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