11th Arkansas Infantry Regiment Sketch by R. Reed

This is a detailed pen-and-ink sketch executed on high-quality paper or light cardstock, depicting a column of Confederate soldiers from the 11th Arkansas Volunteer Infantry. The central figure is dressed in a characteristic slouch hat and period uniform with high leather gaiters, carrying a rifle and gear. The rendering style utilizes cross-hatching and expressive linework to convey a sense of movement and gritty realism typical of Civil War-era historical reconstructions. The artwork features handwritten inscriptions in the lower-left quadrant identifying the subject as '11th Arkansas Rifles marching south from Peoria to St. Patrick - April 6, 1862.' A signature 'R. Reed' followed by the date '5-62' is visible in the lower-right area. The piece is matted with a textured, burnt-orange mounting board and appears to be in good condition with no visible foxing, tearing, or significant fading, though it is currently under glass which may cause reflections. The level of detail in the uniforms and equipment suggests a high degree of historical research by the artist. This piece is likely a mid-20th-century historical illustration rather than a contemporary 1860s field sketch, given the clarity of the line and the modern matting style.

Based on my visual examination, this appears to be a professionally executed pen-and-ink historical illustration signed 'R. Reed' and dated '5-62.' Despite the inscription referencing April 1862, the stylistic clarity, paper quality, and specific date format of the signature ('5-62') indicate this is almost certainly a retrospective work created in May 1962, likely for the Civil War Centennial, rather than an original battlefield sketch. The condition appears to be Very Good; the ink remains bold with excellent contrast, and I observe no significant foxing or toning, suggesting it has been preserved well under glass. The burnt-orange matting is characteristic of mid-20th-century framing. The market for Civil War Centennial art is niche but active among re-enactors and regimental history enthusiasts. While original 1860s field sketches command thousands, retrospective illustrations like this rely heavily on the artist's reputation and decorative appeal. 'R. Reed' is not a widely recognized blue-chip historical artist, which limits the value ceiling. However, the specific subject matter—the 11th Arkansas—adds appeal to regional collectors. To raise this valuation, I would need to physically examine the paper stock to confirm it isn't a lithographic print, which is a common risk with such crisp imagery. I would also require provenance documentation to link 'R. Reed' to a specific publication or known illustrator. Without verification that this is an original ink drawing rather than a reproduction, my valuation remains conservative, treating it as a decorative historical piece of quality draftsmanship.