Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  36 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG WITH CANTED STARS IN DANCING ROWS, ON A BEAUTIFUL, CORNFLOWER BLUE CANTON; CIVIL WAR ERA, NEVADA STATEHOOD, 1864-1867

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 11.25" x 14.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 5" x 8.25"
Description....:
36 star antique American flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton. The stars are arranged in justified, linear rows of 6 x 6, which, because the number laid out so logically, was typical of flags in the 36 star count. Note how the position of the stars, on their vertical axis, varies from one row to the next. In the first row, (when viewed on the obverse,) the stars all have one point directed in the 1:00 position, and in the next, all have one point directed toward 11:00, alternating back-and-forth, from one row to the next, throughout the formation. Because the overall effect is similar to lines of dancers, I have termed this configuration "dancing rows," though it may also accurately be referred to as tilting or "canted" rows.

Also note the color of the canton, which is an absolutely beautiful shade of cornflower blue. This is a very desirable trait and raises interest among both collectors and casual observers alike. Note how well it contrasts with the sunburnt orange coloration of the stripes.

Lincoln pushed Nevada through to statehood on October 31st, 1864, during the Civil War, and just 8 days before the November election. The territory’s wealth in silver was attractive to a nation struggling with the debts of war and so increased support for the Republican ticket. While the 36th star wasn't officially added until July 4th of the following year, the makers of printed flags are known to have begun adding the 36th star as early as July of 1864, several months before the addition of Nevada actually occurred. This was a common practice during the late 19th century and is reflective of both the nation's desire for Westward Expansion and the hope of flag-makers to bring new star counts to market before their competitors. The 36 star flag was officially replaced by the 37 star flag in 1867, following the addition of Nebraska.

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

The gilded , American molding dates to the period between 1840 and 1870. To this a modern, rippled profile molding, black with gold highlights, was added as a liner. The background is 100% cotton twill, black in color, that has been washed and treated for colorfastness. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass.

Condition: There is minor staining in the canton, and just below it, in the striped field. There is a small spot of blue pigment in the white fabric along the hoist. There is and there is extremely minor oxidation elsewhere, but there are no significant condition issues. 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: 36
Earliest Date of Origin: 1864
Latest Date of Origin: 1867
State/Affiliation: Nevada
War Association: 1861-1865 Civil War
Price: SOLD
 

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