The Second Inauguration of Abraham Lincoln, Washington, DC

March 4, 1865

Henry F. Warren

Associated Names
Henry F. Warren

Artist, American, active 1860s

This is a photograph of a large outdoor gathering in a historic urban environment. The image captures a densely packed assembly of figures in period attire, gathered around a grand architectural structure with large columns on the left side. Many are positioned on a raised platform or balcony of the building, suggesting an event of significance. The scene extends into the background where more people are dispersed, and trees are visible. Flags are visible among the crowd, suggesting a public gathering or possibly a ceremonial event. The photograph is sepia-toned, adding to its period feel and capturing the hustle and busyness of the scene.
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Artwork overview

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Alexander Gardner; John C. Nicolay, Washington, DC, 1865; Helen Nicolay, Washington, DC; Barbara Benoit, Helen Nicolay's godchild; Estate of Lloyd Ostendorf; (sale, Bonhams & Butterfields, San Francisco, 23 November 2004); Ron Perisho, Gettysburg, PA; NGA purchase, 2025.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

by unknown hand, bottom center on mount in graphite: ONLY KNOWN ORIGINAL SIDE VIEW - JOHN G. NICOLAY'S PHOTOGRAPH 1865; on verso, by unknown hand, top center in black ink: Lincoln's Second Inauguration.; upper center in graphite: SIDE VIEW/DURING CEREMONY / LINCOLN NOT VISIBLE; upper right: 1000.00 / 1988; lower center: from JOHN C. NICOLAY'S / Heirs 1988