Edwin Forbes
Although photography was in existence during the Civil War, the equipment was too bulky and slow for active battlefield usage. Publications relied on sketch artists to capture the imagery of combat. The so-called “special artists” were embedded with the troops, and hastily created drawings that were dispatched for print.
At age of 22, Edwin Forbes was sent to cover the war for Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper. His art was unique in that it often focused on some of the mundane aspects in the lives of soldiers.
Often created during the heat of battle, rough sketches were often sent to the publishers, with instructions on refinements needed. Sometimes significant details were lost during this translation
Following the war, Edwin refined several of his sketches. In 1876 he created a 40 etching set called “Life Studies of the Great Army”. He received much acclaim for this work, winning a gold medal at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.
Due to paralysis in his right hand, Edwin learned to work with his left hand. Some of his later etchings were signed by his wife: Mrs. Edwin Forbes.