Last Council, The - Framed Print

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Open edition, fine quality art prints are professionally framed. Double mats and 1¼” dark wood frames. Includes hanging hardware.

This framed print is unsigned.

Framed Print
Image size: 7¼” x 10¼”
Framed size: 15½” x 16”
Wooden frame: 1¼” wide

Historical Information
The Last Council depicts the final meeting between Generals "Stonewall" Jackson, Robert E. Lee, and "Jeb" Stuart, which occurred at the 1863 battle of Chancellorsville. At this "Cracker Barrel Conference," Jackson, Lee, and Stuart developed the strategy that made Chancellorsville Lee’s greatest victory. It also proved to be the last council for the three almost legendary Confederate commanders. The next day, Jackson received battle wounds that led to his death. 

Mort Künstler's Comments
I had always wanted to paint the great Confederate heroes Robert E. Lee and "Stonewall" Jackson together. But since their last meeting together, the famous "Cracker Box" Conference on May 1, 1863 at Chancellorsville had been painted by a number of artists at that time, I gave up on that as an idea. However, on reading James McPherson's book Battle Cry For Freedom, I learned for the first time that J.E.B Stuart had arrived earlier in the evening with the startling news that the Union right flank was "in the air" and not anchored by any natural barrier. I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to show not two, but three of the Confederate greats in one picture. As far as I knew, the moment I wanted to paint had not been done before. The lighting effects were difficult but dramatic, if I could make it come off. The warm firelight, with the chilled moonlight as a contrast could be perfect for telling the story. Because of Jackson's famous reputation as a strategist, I chose to have him suggesting the planned attack. Lee, the great decision maker should of course, be the center of interest. The cavalry in the rear are part of Stuart's entourage who have just ridden in with the news of Union troop movements.

A few hours later, Jackson was shot accidentally by his own men. He died May 10, 1863.

The Battle of Chancellorsville turned out to be Lee's greatest victory, as well as his greatest loss.