Bee was a first lieutenant in the South Carolina Artillery during the Civil War and died from wounds sustained during the defense of Morris Island. This miniature was done posthumously, with portions perhaps copied from a daguerreotype. The rigidly frontal position and incessantly regular stippling give the portrayal an unlifelike quality, and the clouds behind him might suggest another world. In addition, his limp left arm and his right hand against his chest may be allusions to his wounds.
Notes:
This text is adapted from Martha Severens "The Miniature Portrait Collection of the Carolina Art Association" published by the Carolina Art Association, 1984
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