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ca. 1885 CABINET CARD OF A CAVALRY SOLDIER AND HIS FULLY SADDLED HORSE AND TWO CANINE COMPANIONS - EXCELLENT CAVALRY OUTDOOR VIEW:  This is a particularly nice cabinet card image of an Indian Wars Cavalryman, ca. 1885, standing with his horse and two dogs - probably the company mascots.  Overall, this image has excellent content.     

This soldier who appears to hold the rank of corporal, presents as a seasoned veteran and is dressed and equipped for duty “under arms” - including the cartridge belt full of cartridges, his pistol on his belt, and his carbine seated in the carbine boot hanging from the saddle.  While the Model 1885 Mills Cartridge Belt with the holstered pistol is normally an accoutrement set associated with field or campaign wear, however the lack of saddle bags on the horse indicate this soldier was probably on duty in an assignment closer to the post rather than going into the field for an extended period.  Perhaps the presence of the dogs suggests he was going hunting closer to the post.    

The horse is mounted with what appears to be a Model 1885 McClellan Saddle complete with all the coat straps and a Model 1885 Saddle Blanket – items that do not often appear in these period images.    

Measuring 8” by 6”, this is a good sized image that provides a detailed view of all the subject matter.  The cabinet card has seen some aging and exposure to handling, but the image is still quite sharp, the image and the card are very stable with no damage.   

There is an ink inscription on the reverse, “Sister Ella From Johnnie”, likely indicating the image was sent home by the soldier to a loved one.     

This is an excellent view of an Indian Wars cavalry soldier turned out with his saddled horse, with considerable detail.  Mounted soldier images are fairly scarce and have always been one of the premier subjects sought in Indian War photography.  (0806) $525

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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