Curatorial Narrative The 1862 work “Camp PardeeCol. Gearys commandnear Upperville, Va” by Edwin Forbes occupies a pivotal position within the trajectory of American realism, coinciding with the tumultuous years of the Civil War. Forbes’s attention to historical accuracy and adherence to realistic conventions serve as a counterpoint to the increasingly romanticized depictions of the era. His use of fine brushwork imbues the scene with an intimate sense of immediacy, evoking the artist’s presence at the site. The monochromatic palette, rendered in sepia tones, lends an air of aged timelessness, underscoring the historical significance of the subject matter.When enlarged to 118×44, Forbes’s “Camp Pardee” assumes a commanding presence within the luxury interior environment. The spatial depth achieved through layered brushwork and atmospheric perspective creates a sense of immersive distance, drawing the viewer into the rustic encampment