Description

This mezzotint engraving, done from the Lincoln family painting by S. B. Waugh, features the Lincoln family gathered around a table in the parlor of the Executive Mansion. Lincoln is seated to the viewer's left with his left elbow resting on the table and his right hand on his youngest son's shoulder to symbolize his love of family and his devotion to his country. Lincoln is depicted wearing a black suit, vest, bow tie and a while collared shirt. The oldest son, Robert, is standing in the middle of the image behind the table. Mrs. Lincoln is seated to the viewer's right wearing a long black dress. The Capitol dome can be seen through the window to the viewer's left. Just behind Lincoln is a bust of George Washington symbolizing the link with the "father of the country." A portrait of the Lincoln's middle son, Willie, who died in 1862 hangs on the wall behind Robert. The publishing information is printed just below the image. The print is an artist's proof and is signed in pencil by the artist in the lower left margin. Part of the Lincoln Financial Foundation Collection, courtesy of the Indiana State Museum