Matteson, T. H. "Freedoms holy cause”

T. H. Matteson.  "Freedoms holy cause."  Also known as "The Spirit of – 76." 

From Odd Fellows Offering.  New York: Edward Walker, 1851.  4 ¼ x 5 ¾ (image).  Mezzotint engraving H. S. Sadd.  Printed by Ormsby.  Minor soiling in bottom margin.  Very good condition.  

A small book plate print after a much larger oil painting and print which depicts the soldier gallantly going off to war for family and country.  The man of the family accepts a rifle from his elderly father and a sword from his mother.  His distraught wife kneels before him while buckling his belt, and his eldest child holds his powderhorn.  His infant child sleeps in the arms of a nursemaid who holds a copy of the Declaration of Independence, while in the left background a soldier comes to the door bearing the call to arms.  Implements of domestic life are scattered about the house interior to signify that they are to be left behind.

This print was based on a painting done by Tompkins H. Matteson in 1845 which was exhibited both at the American Art Union and the National Academy.  The painting was a great success and it established Matteson as an artist known for his historical themes infused with patriotic feelings.