Figure 1.-- These two boys had a CDV portrait made in the 1860s, probably the early 60s. We think that the brothers are American, although there is no printing on the mount. The lack of printing suggests the portrait was taken in the early 60s. The boys look to be about 6-9 years old. They wear matching Zouave outfits.

These two boys had a CDV portrait made in the 1860s, probably the early 60s. We think that the brothers are American, although there is no printing on the mount. The lack of printing suggests the portrait was taken in the early 60s. The boys look to be about 6-9 years old. They wear matching Zouave outfits. The jackets are done in the cut-away style with heavy embroidery. The embrouidery is repeated on a matching belt and at the side of the heavily blouced bloomer knickers. The small jackets and baggy pants were hallmarks of the Zouave style. Zouaves outfits were inspired by French North African soldiers. It was a poplar style in America during the Civil War (1861-65), although rarely were the blue and red colors adopted for boys' outfits. The color looks, however, to be a light-muted shade, not the bright red and blue Zouave colors. The puttees further confirm military styling. Their caps, however, are unusual. They do not wear fezes or kepis. Rather they wear rounded military caps. This is not a style swe have commonly noted in America. It seems more of a British style. The Zouave outfits were more common in America because of the Civil War. As there is no printing, we do not know just where the portrait was taken. Hand written on the back is "Charles & Harland Russell - Children of Mr. Charles H. Russell - Grandma Rosin's brother"

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Created: 6:53 PM 7/8/2007
Last edited: 6:53 PM 7/8/2007