Union general and secretary of war under Grant (1829–1890). Inadvertently, Belknap almost saved Custer from his fate at Little Bighorn, when Custer became embroiled in the scandal that resulted in Belknap’s impeachment and Grant’s censure of Custer. Original 2.5 x 4 carte-de-visite three-quarter length portrait of Belknap in uniform, by an anonymous studio, signed in the lower border in black ink, “Wm. W. Belknap, Brig. Genl. Vols.” In very good to fine condition, light toning, some mild silvering to dark areas of the image, and clipped corners. RR Auction COA.