A Bit of War History: The Veteran

A Bit of War History: The Veteran

1866

This painting by Thomas Waterman Wood shows the same African American man from "The Recruit" still in his uniform, but as an amputee on crutches. He nevertheless raises his right hand in salute. His uniform is faded, and dust covers his hat and boots. He wears a red shirt, and has a kerchief tied about his head, under his cap. The kerchief seems to be made of the same fabric as the bindle he carried with him at his arrival in "The Contraband." The man stands in full light, with the recruiter's office now in heavy shadow behind him. His gaze is still firm, with a quiet determination. He is clearly proud of his military service. His weapons are propped against the chair behind him, and a crumpled knapsack lies on the ground nearby. The scene is the same Provost Marshall's office as in the previous two paintings. The recruiting poster for "Volunteers Wanted" remains on the wall. In heavy shadow behind him is an American flag, seen through an open door. In the left foreground is the corner of a tent.

Analysis: The condition of both the man and his uniform reflect the sacrifices he has made and the hardships he has seen. His red shirt stands out prominently as a symbol both of the blood he has sacrificed and his heart of courage. The full light on the man indicates a new day of freedom dawning, and a bright future full of hope and possibility. The Provost Marshal's office remains a significant setting, as it would play a role to secure and maintain African Americans' rights in the post-war years through the Freedmen's Bureau.

Wood, Thomas Waterman

Link to the Met website: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/13344

Object number 84.12c, part of a triptych. Oil on canvas. The Met, Fifth Avenue (Metropolitan Museum of Art), New York, New York.

In public domain according to The Met's website

Part three of a triptych (three-part painting).

Image

TWWood-Veteran.jpg

1860-1865; 1866-1869

Painting

28 1/4 in. x 20 1/4 in.