War is hell to nations, communities, and families. In “A Farewell to Arms” (1929), novelist and World War I veteran Ernest Hemingway wrote “There were many words that you could not stand to hear and finally only the names of places had dignity. Abstract words such as glory, honor, courage, or hallow were obscene.” This cabinet card photograph illustrates the impact of war on a family. The two men in uniform are likely the father and oldest son of the family. The men could not look more serious. Perhaps at the time of this photograph their nation was near, or at war. The remainder of the family (mother, two daughters, and a son) look extremely concerned and worried. The welfare of their nation and their family unit was in jeopardy. This terrific photograph speaks loudly and clearly about the horror of war. The photographer of this emotionally charged image is Ant. Knoll who operated a studio in Vienna, Austria.
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 
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