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  44 STARS ON A LARGE SCALE PARADE FLAG, WYOMING STATEHOOD, 1890-1896, RARE IN THIS PERIOD WITH A WREATH CONFIGURATION

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): Approx. 34.5" x 42"
Flag Size (H x L): 23.5" x 31"
Description....:
44 star American parade flag with triple wreath medallion star configuration, printed on cotton. This highly desired star pattern is seen primarily in flags made between the Civil War (1861-65) and the nation’s centennial (1876). Medallion configurations, however, are rare in flags with greater than 38 stars, and that is one reason why this particular stars and stripes is so highly sought after by advanced parade flag collectors.

Note how the orderly circular arrangement of such a large star count is reminiscent of a clear summer night sky, filled with stars. Also note that the proportions of the flag are rather square, which provides some additional visual impact to this great example of 19th century flag-making.

It is interesting to note that I discovered a period image of this particular variety of parade flag in an early postcard advertising the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia. A photo of the front of the house shows two of these flags, affixed to staffs, propped at opposite angles in the front window. While perhaps difficult for the casual observer to identify, a connoisseurs of printed flags may recognize their scale and iconic design. The postcard is hand-dated 1905.

The 44th state, Wyoming, gained statehood on July 10th, 1890. Many flag makers would have began to add a 44th star to their flags on or before that day, and the 44 star flag would have generally seen use until the addition of Utah in 1896.

Mounting: The flag was mounted and framed within our own conservation department, which is led by masters degree trained staff. We take great care in the mounting and preservation of flags and have framed thousands of examples.

The black-painted, hand-gilded and distressed molding is Italian. The background is 100% cotton twill, black in color. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass. Feel free to contact us for more details.

Condition: There is a series of tiny tack holes and tears along the top stripe, but with little to no associated loss. There is extremely minor staining. The flag presents beautifully and there are no further condition issues.
Collector Level: Advanced Collectors and the Person with Everything
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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