Up for auction is a magnificent and rare vintage 1907 historical chromolithograph titled "Lee and His Generals," created by publisher W. B. Matthews and featuring artwork originally associated with renowned portraitist George Bagby Matthews.

Measuring an impressive 29 inches by 18 inches, this striking piece captures General Robert E. Lee standing alongside a distinguished assembly of prominent Confederate military commanders, all carefully identified by a numbered key printed along the lower margin. Notable figures featured in the composition include Stonewall Jackson, James Longstreet, J.E.B. Stuart, and A.P. Hill. Lithographed and distributed during the post-Victorian era, this print embodies the commemorative style of early 20th-century historical printmaking and remains a sought-after piece for collectors of American Civil War memorabilia.

The piece is housed in a handsome period-style wooden frame that complements its antique aesthetic. Condition is consistent with age, displaying rich historical character, classic muted coloration, and fine detailing throughout. A wonderful display piece for any historical collection, study, or office.

Biography of the Maker

George Bagby Matthews (1857–1944): The artist behind the composition was a celebrated Virginia-born painter and portraitist. Matthews studied his craft in Paris, France, and spent a significant portion of his professional career working in Washington, D.C., where he contributed notable historical portraiture, including works associated with the U.S. Capitol. He specialized heavily in capturing historical figures of the Confederate era with a high degree of dramatic realism.

W. B. Matthews: Operating out of Washington, D.C., W. B. Matthews published and copyrighted this popular commemorative print in April 1907, tapping into the massive turn-of-the-century wave of nostalgia and historical reflection regarding the American Civil War.

Relevant Historical Information & Interesting Facts

The "Lost Cause" Cultural Wave: Printed in 1907, pieces like this were heavily driven by the "Lost Cause" movement. Decades after the conclusion of the Civil War, veterans and subsequent generations embraced romanticized, heroic depictions of Confederate military leadership, leading to a high demand for large group portraits in American homes.

Comprehensive Roster: The bottom margin acts as an architectural key, methodically labeling individual commanders (numbered 1 through roughly 26 depending on the exact edition layout), ensuring that lesser-known brigade and division leaders alongside top generals were permanently immortalized.

Archival Preservation: Copies of this exact 1907 chromolithograph are preserved in major institutional collections, including the Library of Congress (Prints and Photographs Division) and the Kentucky Historical Society.