FASTFRAME of Lakeville - Expert Custom Picture Framing

Examples & Ideas

Before Battle by Martha Iler

In 1864 cadets from Virginia Military Institute were asked by Confederate Gen. John Breckenridge to serve in reserve for an expected clash with Union forces. On May 15, after marching 81 miles in 4 days, the Corps of Cadets filled a critical void in the line, withstood an artillery barrage, then led the charge that resulted in a Confederate victory at the Battle of New Market. Their service marks the only time in the nation's history when an entire student body fought as a unit in pitched battle. That service entitles VMI cadets to be the only school in the United States to parade with fixed bayonets, and to fly a battle streamer on its flag.

In this drawing by Martha Iler, a young cadet prepares to load his Enfield prior to the fight. He is reaching for a bullet like the authentic artifact shown below the picture.

Consistent with the drawing and the theme, the artwork is wrapped in Confederate gray wool – both the mat and seamless liner which provides depth for the .58 cal. “minnie ball”. The weathered frame and fillet are reminiscent of the fence line where the VMI students prepared for their part in the battle. This is a preservation framing with artwork and artifact mounted with fully reversible techniques. Museum glass allows full appreciation of the artwork and artifact detail.

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