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[Ballooning] [Civil War]. The Eagle Balloon and Flag, 1862 - Drawing.
Interesting and beautiful diminutive drawing, ink and pencil on paper, titled at the lower edge "The Eagle Balloon and Flags," depicting a balloon carrying a tiny figure with hat and scope through the air. And what a balloon, every inch decorated in patterns and with a flower blooming across the arching top, flags to either side and tassels dangling from the basket below. Inscribed on the verso "Winder Hospittle [sic], Virginia, Oct. 3, 1862" and signed "John S. Johnston." 6 1/4 x 4 inches. Generally toned and with some foxing, a few small holes and scratches.
Winder Hospital in Richmond, VA was constructed just after the beginning of the Civil War, in 1861, and soon came to be referred to as "The largest hospital in the Confederacy." (Richmond Whig 15 June 1864) Hot air balloons played a significant role in the Civil War, providing military leaders with a tool to survey for miles around. This was true especially during the "Seven Days Campaign" in 1862, when Union balloons were used to observe movement within downtown Richmond, precisely where this drawing was accomplished. One may presume that the artist of the drawing, John Johnston, was likely an injured soldier at the hospital, and that he observed such balloons in flight. An intriguing piece of Civil War era Americana.
[Ballooning] [Civil War]. The Eagle Balloon and Flag, 1862 - Drawing.
Interesting and beautiful diminutive drawing, ink and pencil on paper, titled at the lower edge "The Eagle Balloon and Flags," depicting a balloon carrying a tiny figure with hat and scope through the air. And what a balloon, every inch decorated in patterns and with a flower blooming across the arching top, flags to either side and tassels dangling from the basket below. Inscribed on the verso "Winder Hospittle [sic], Virginia, Oct. 3, 1862" and signed "John S. Johnston." 6 1/4 x 4 inches. Generally toned and with some foxing, a few small holes and scratches.
Winder Hospital in Richmond, VA was constructed just after the beginning of the Civil War, in 1861, and soon came to be referred to as "The largest hospital in the Confederacy." (Richmond Whig 15 June 1864) Hot air balloons played a significant role in the Civil War, providing military leaders with a tool to survey for miles around. This was true especially during the "Seven Days Campaign" in 1862, when Union balloons were used to observe movement within downtown Richmond, precisely where this drawing was accomplished. One may presume that the artist of the drawing, John Johnston, was likely an injured soldier at the hospital, and that he observed such balloons in flight. An intriguing piece of Civil War era Americana.