President Martin Van Buren 1855 - 1858

This photograph, taken by renowned American photographer Mathew B. Brady, captures President Martin Van Buren in a formal portrait. The image, created between 1855 and 1858, showcases Van Buren in a somber mood, dressed in a dark coat and holding a book. Brady's meticulous attention to detail and the realistic depiction of the subject are hallmarks of his work, which contributed significantly to the development of portrait photography in the mid-19th century. The photograph is currently part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York City, offering viewers a glimpse into the life of a prominent figure from American history.