The many astonishing and worthy candidates from both sides make it an extremely tough call. Although I've always thought any portrait of Lee simply the very definition of the word dignity, I think I have to go with Stuart. The
light and intelligence pouring off that face, paired with that beard, elevate him
ever so slightly above the rest.

Although for me, an honorable mention would have to go to Orrin Soper, my
great-grandfather, serving in a Pennsylvania unit in Grant's Overland campaign, I think. A Minie ball got tangled in his beard and ripped a strip of it out, making it a rather unique example of facial hair. He said it felt like his head was being torn off. As my grandmother was born in 1891, it was a very near miss and close shave for me.