3 7/8 x 2 3/8 in (9.9 x 6 cm)

Provenance and Authentication:
According to the Letter of Authenticity (LOA) and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) provided by the consignor, this collectible was subjected to a forensic examination. The accompanying documentation states that the signatures were evaluated with reference to multiple characteristics, including ink deposition, material and aging characteristics, stylistic consistency, and historical context. Based on the examination described in these documents, the authentication provider concluded that the findings were consistent with the attributed signatures. The LOA and COA provided by the consignor accompany the lot.

A nineteenth-century Carte de Visite portrait photograph signed by William Tecumseh Sherman (1820-1891), the prominent Union general of the American Civil War. The photograph depicts Sherman in military uniform and bears the printed identification "Gen. W. T. Sherman." beneath the portrait.

Signed in dark ink "W. T. Sherman," with "General" additionally inscribed below. The visible handwriting displays a broad angular opening to the initial, abbreviated middle initials, a prominently developed capital "S," compressed connected letterforms through the surname, and an extended terminal stroke. The accompanying "General" inscription follows a similarly fluid cursive rhythm and inclination.

The placement of the inscription within the light area immediately beneath the portrait provides strong visual separation while preserving the principal photographic image. Showing expected age-related toning, spotting, and handling wear, the CDV retains considerable period character.

Combining Sherman's autograph with his military portrait, the piece represents an especially evocative form of nineteenth-century American historical and Civil War memorabilia.