Oil on canvas portrait of Civil War Union General John Howard Kitching (1838-1865) astride a black horse in the midst of a battlefield. Inscribed faintly en verso "Black ___ New York 1878". Possibly William Thurston Black (American, 1816-1893), a portrait painter working in New York. Housed in a later giltwood and composition frame. Sight - 47"H x 35"W. Frame - 58"H x 47"W.  NOTE: One of youngest Union generals, Kitching was admired by his troops and superior officers alike for his courage and humility. Despite health problems in his youth that continued into his young adulthood, he led the 6th New York Heavy Artillery in some of the fiercest battles of the Civil War. As a young captain, he distinguished himself with McClellan's Army of the Potomac in the Peninsula campaign, offering himself into combat. According to the Account of the Sixth New York Artillery from the Highland Democrat of Peekskill, NY, "In April 1862 while acting as Captain... he volunteered to act as Second Lieutenant of a Regular battery before the enemy, rather than remain idle in the fort. This indicates a character determined to accomplish something for the good of his country, as well as for his own advancement. To this courageous temper Col. Kitching adds a disposition to thoroughly acquire a knowledge of what is the duty of a soldier." Kitching fought "with great coolness" at the Battle of Gaines Mills, but became seriously ill and had to resign his position with the Army of the Potomac. He returned to New York to recover. Despite the suggestion that he remain at home, he accepted a commission as Lieutenant Colonel in the 135th New York Infantry. In September 1862, the 135th, then stationed at Fort McHenry, in Baltimore, was re-designated as the 6th New York Heavy Artillery. The 6th left to garrison Harper’s Ferry and in April 1863, Kitching assumed command as colonel.  By the spring of 1864, Colonel Kitching reached brigade command. His troops guarded the ammunition and supplies of the Artillery Reserve. They first saw combat at the Battle of the Wilderness and went on to fight in some of the war's bloodiest battles including Spotsylvania Court House, Bethesda Church, and Petersburg. Period accounts record that Kitching often "has no better accommodations than the humblest private in his command. Men will follow such a leader." At the Battle of Cedar Creek, Kitching was assigned to hold a ridge along with Colonel Rutherford B. Hayes (the future President). Kitching was hit in the foot but refused to leave the battlefield until he nearly lost consciousness from loss of blood. His foot was amputated and he never recovered, dying few months later at the age of 26. Kitching was promoted posthumously to brevet brigadier general. On January 16, 1865, the officers of the 6th NY Heavy Artillery resolved: "That the character of General Kitching as an officer and a gentleman, was such as commanded our highest respect and esteem. His qualities as a soldier and a leader, whether displayed in the quiet of camp or in the storm of battle always secured the earnest confidence of all. We feel that no one can supply his place with us. He died for his country, but his memory will ever live in our hearts as that of a good man. a true soldier and a gallant officer." (Source: the National Park Service). 

Overall good condition. Three 1-inch patches to sky area, sash tassel area, and lower right corner. Scattered minor retouch and craquelure. Stretcher lines.