Giles, J.E. “President Grant & Family.”

J.E. Giles. “President Grant & Family.” 

New York: Moore & Co., ca. 1868-85.  Engraving by G.E. Perine in original oval frame.  12 1/2 x 10 1/2.  Frame repaired; print in excellent condition.

Ulysses S. Grant (1822-1885) was the most popular Union general at the end of the Civil War.  He was elected president in 1868 and served two terms.  His supporters portrayed him as the staunch family man, which he was, and he was depicted in prints with all four of his children from the war years through his presidency.  This charming depiction of Julia Dent Grant with the president and children is typical but charming in its small format and frame.  After his presidency he retired to Galena, Illinois, and after that to New York.  The presence of books in this portrait indicates the preference for education and family values in American society.