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  44 DANCING OR TUMBLING STARS IN AN HOURGLASS FORMATION, WYOMING STATEHOOD, 1890-1896

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): Approx. 46" x 25"
Flag Size (H x L): 36" x 19.75"
Description....:
44 star American parade flag printed on coarse, glazed cotton. These are configured in rows of 8-7-7-7-7-8, with the top and bottom rows offset so that they resemble a broad hourglass. Although there was no official configuration until 1912, this attractive star design can often be encountered on 44 star flags.

Note how the vertical orientation of each star alternates from one to the next, so that they are consecutively point-up, point-down, creating what I call a “tumbling” or “dancing” formation. Also note the vibrant coloration of both the red and blue pigments, which add a great deal to the flag's striking presentation. The long and narrow profile adds further interest. The combination of these attractive features results in a beautiful example of the period.

The 44th state, Wyoming, gained statehood on July 10th, 1890. Even though the 44 star flag was not official until July 4th, 1891, most flag-makers would have begun to add a 44th star to their flags as soon as Wyoming declared statehood, or perhaps even before the state was actually added. Because flag-making was a competitive venture, flag-makers did not want to be producing 43 star flags, for example, when their competitors were selling 44’s. The 44 star flag would have generally seen use until the addition of Utah in 1896.

Mounting: The flag has been placed in its correct vertical position, with the canton in the upper left. It was then hand-stitched to 100% cotton, black in color, which was washed to reduce excess dye. An acid-free agent was added to the wash to further set the dye and the fabric was heat-treated for the same purpose. The mount was then placed in a black-painted, hand-gilded and distressed Italian molding. The glazing is U.V. protective Plexiglas.

Condition: There is minor fading and there is minor to moderate soiling throughout. There is moderate fabric loss adjacent to the hoist in both the canton and the stripes. Fabric of similar coloration was placed behind these areas for masking purposes and the fabric was professionally painted to blend with the grain of the fabric and associated soiling. Many of my clients prefer early flags to show their age and history of use.
Collector Level: Intermediate-Level Collectors and Special Gifts
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 44
Earliest Date of Origin: 1890
Latest Date of Origin: 1896
State/Affiliation: Wyoming
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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