Civil War Era Female Equestrian CDV

Women in Sports

Photograph

Albumen carte-de-visite depicting a woman dressed in a dark riding habit, holding a slender riding crop in her right hand and resting her left on a desk. C.a. 1850s–70s. 2.5" x 4" on cardstock mount. There are no markings on the photograph indicating the woman’s identity, though her long-sleeved fitted bodice and full skirt are characteristic of American equestrian fashion in the mid-19th century. Riding habits of this period often adapted the tailored silhouette of men’s coats, paired with practical yet elegant skirts suitable for sidesaddle riding. The riding crop in her hand was both a functional tool for controlling a mount and a fashionable accessory in formal equestrian portraiture. Women’s participation in equestrian activities in the 19th century was often associated with skill, refinement, and social standing, with formal portraits like this serving as lasting representations of their horsemanship and style. Overall very good condition. A fine example of mid-19th century equestrian portrait photography.

Item #20596

Price: $225.00