The Fight at Fallen Timbers

This is Mort Künstler limited edition print - The Fight at Fallen Timbers. Col. N.B. Forest and Capt. John Hunt Morgan Shiloh April 8, 1862.

Paper Prints
Reproduction technique: Fine offset lithography on neutral pH archival quality paper using the finest fade-resistant inks.
Each print is numbered and signed by the artist and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Image Size: 15¼” x 25” • Overall Size: 19¾” x 29”

Signed Artist’s Proof • Edition Size: 50

Mort Künstler’s Comments
In reading the book ‘First with the Most’ Forrest, by Robert Selph Henry, I was searching for a moment that would typify the audacity and man of action that was Nathan Bedford Forrest. I did not have to search long. On Tuesday, April 8, 1862, to be exact, at the Battle of Shiloh, events took place that were so exciting and action packed as to defy belief!

Forrest had been put in charge of fragments of various cavalry commands - his own Tennessee regiment, Adam's Mississippians, Wharton’s Texas Rangers and Morgan’s Kentuckians. They would act as a rear guard. It was an opportunity to portray Forrest in action along with the soon to be famous John Hunt Morgan. The weather was nasty, rainy, it hailed that night. It was a great atmosphere for a painting. I had found my moment!

While a regiment of Ohio infantry advanced toward Forrest through mire and a belt of fallen timber, instead of waiting to be attacked, he decided to charge. We see Forrest as a Colonel, sword in hand, leading a dangerous charge over the fallen timbers with John Hunt Morgan at his side. Although Forrest was born left handed, because of the stigma attached in those days, he practiced using his right hand so diligently that he became virtually ambidextrous.

The Texas flag follows with the Confederate battle flag alongside. The first national flag, widely used at the the time, is seen behind Morgan. In the extreme right background is the flag of the fourth unit.

The dead trees and fallen timber became perfect design elements to call attention to the center of interest, Forrest. This is the first time I have done a painting of either Nathan Bedford Forrest or the Battle of Shiloh. I am sure it will not be the last!