This studio portrait of Robert E. Lee was taken in 1863 in Richmond, Virginia, at the height of the American Civil War. Lee appears composed and reserved, wearing his Confederate general’s uniform, with the three stars on his collar marking his rank. His steady gaze and neatly trimmed gray beard convey discipline, restraint, and authority, traits that defined his leadership during the conflict. The photograph is widely attributed to Julian Vannerson, who operated a studio in Richmond when it ser