p-troiani019 Don Troiani

The drawing presents a solitary figure, a soldier in what appears to be a military uniform from the mid-19th century. He stands in a three-quarter pose, his gaze directed slightly off-center, suggesting a contemplative or watchful state rather than direct engagement. The composition is straightforward; the subject occupies nearly the entire frame, emphasizing his individual presence and perhaps symbolizing isolation within a larger conflict.
The soldier’s attire is meticulously rendered: a dark blue uniform jacket with visible buttons and insignia – a small disc on the chest – dark trousers tucked into sturdy boots, and a peaked cap that obscures much of his forehead. A substantial haversack rests upon his shoulders, alongside what seems to be an ammunition pouch, indicating preparedness for extended service. He holds a long-barreled rifle in his right hand, held loosely but ready for action. The details of the uniform and equipment are rendered with considerable precision, suggesting an intention to document or memorialize specific military attire.
The color palette is restrained, dominated by shades of blue, grey, and brown, contributing to a somber and realistic tone. Light falls from the left, illuminating one side of his face and highlighting the texture of his uniform. The background is plain, devoid of any contextual elements that might suggest a specific location or event. This lack of setting further isolates the figure, drawing attention solely to him and his equipment.
Subtly, the artist conveys an impression of quiet resilience. There’s no overt display of aggression or bravado; instead, the soldiers posture suggests weariness and perhaps a degree of stoicism. The downward cast of his eyes hints at introspection, possibly reflecting on the hardships inherent in military life or the gravity of conflict. The inscription below – Federal Infantryman 1862 – provides temporal context, anchoring the image within a specific historical period marked by significant upheaval. It is likely intended to serve as an accurate depiction of a soldiers appearance during that time.