Gordon Under Medical Inspection — William D. Mcpherson And M. Oliver

Gordon Under Medical Inspection

A visceral 1863 photograph by William D. Mcpherson and M. Oliver capturing the harrowing scars of an enslaved man known as Gordon, offering a profound historical encounter available for your collection.


William D. Mcpherson And M. Oliver

William D. McPherson & M. Oliver were American photographers known for their powerful Civil War-era documentation of slavery, notably "Gordon's Scourged Back." Their images became iconic abolitionist tools and offer a haunting glimpse into the realities of 19th-century America.

National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C., United States of America)

Located in Washington D.C., the National Museum of African American History and Culture offers an immersive journey through resilience via its iconic bronze lattice and profound collections, inviting you to explore.

Carte-de-visite of a formerly enslsaved man identified only as Private Gordon. Gordon is seated wearing trousers and no shirt. Facing the camera is his bare back, with severe raised scars from just above his shoulder blades to his lower back. He head is facing to the left and can be seen in profile while his left hand is resting on his left hip. Written on the back is