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  13 STAR SWALLOWTAILED PATRIOTIC BANNER, 1890-1900

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): Approx. 81" x 43"
Flag Size (H x L): 70" x 33"
Description....:
13 STAR SWALLOWTAILED PATRIOTIC BANNER, 1890-1900:

13 star patriotic banner, probably made in the patriotic fervor of the Spanish-American War (1898) or for the World Columbian Exposition in Chicago (Chicago World's Fair, 1893). The 13 star count has been used throughout our nation's history, to commemorate the original 13 colonies during the struggle for American Independence. Stars & Stripes banners dating to the 19th century are rare and are particularly desirable with interesting designs, such as this swallowtail example, pieced stripes and appliqued stars.

Note how the stars are configured in rows of 5-3-5, which is a very unusual arrangement. The canton and stripes are treadle-sewn and made of wool bunting. There is an open sleeve made of an extended section of the blue wool canton that is folded over and hemmed. The stars are made of cotton and are double-appliqued (sewn to both sides of the banner) with a lineal, treadle stitch. This type of stitching of the stars on commercially made flags is primarily seen in the short, five-year period between 1890 and 1895, though sometimes a bit later. After this, flag-makers went to a zigzag stitch, patented in 1892. The technique of running the stitch from point-to-point, through the body of the stars, isn't generally seen before 1890. Pieced and sewn banners with appliqued stars, of this size and with wool construction, usually date to the period between 1876 and 1900. When this fact is combined with the manner in which the stars are sewn, all characteristics point to the last decade of the 19th century.

Mounting: The banner has been sewn to 100% natural fabric on every seam and throughout the star field for the support. Fabric of similar coloration was used to strengthen the color against the white background, and strips of white silk were placed behind the white stripes to mask minor losses. The banner was then hand-sewn to a background of 100% natural hemp fabric. The mount was placed over acid-free materials on a wooden strainer frame, and placed in a black-painted, hand-gilded and distressed, Italian molding. The front is u.v. protective plexiglas.

Condition: There is minor mothing with associated losses, and very tiny spots of staining, but there are no serious condition issues.
Collector Level: Intermediate-Level Collectors and Special Gifts
Flag Type: Sewn flag
Star Count: 13
Earliest Date of Origin: 1890
Latest Date of Origin: 1900
State/Affiliation: 13 Original Colonies
War Association: 1898 Spanish American War
Price: Sold
 

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