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  PRINTED COTTON KERCHIEF GLORIFYING THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, WITH TEXT AND REPRODUCED SIGNATURES, MADE FOR THE 1876 CENTENNIAL INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 28.5" x 34"
Flag Size (H x L): 19.5" x 25.5"
Description....:
PRINTED COTTON KERCHIEF GLORIFYING THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, WITH TEXT AND REPRODUCED SIGNATURES, MADE FOR THE 1876 CENTENNIAL INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION:

Printed on cotton, with hand-sewn bindings, this beautiful kerchief pays respect to the Declaration of Independence through the reproduction of its text and 56 signatures, surrounded by a fanciful border. This consists of the 13 state seals, which are dispersed around the perimeter in small medallion images. Note how Pennsylvania is highlighted among them, larger and in the bottom center, both because it served as the meeting place of the Continental Congress during the 18th century, and played host to the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, the six-month long World's Fair event that was held in honor of our nation's 100-year anniversary of independence. The names of 12 Revolutionary War generals are spread out between each crest, on each forward-facing turn of a scroll that wraps around a pillar and leaf border on the right, left, and bottom. The top is crowned by an image of the Liberty Bell with outstretched sprigs of olive and oak branches. The scarlet red border creates nice contrast with the sepia text and illustrations and the white background.

An example of the bandanna is pictured in "Threads of History" by Herbert Ridgeway Collins (Smithsonian Press, 1979). Collins formerly served as curator of political history at the Smithsonian and his text is considered the definitive reference on American political textiles. I have many times seen this kerchief sewn into quilts produced in the patriotism fueled by the centennial, but oddly enough, I have not before owned a loose example.

Mounting: The gilded American molding is of exceptional quality, with equally exceptional coloration and early surface. It dates to the period between 1830 and 1860. The kerchief has been hand-stitched to a background of 100% cotton, black in color, that 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. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is U.V. protective.

Condition: There is minor foxing and staining.
Collector Level: Intermediate-Level Collectors and Special Gifts
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count:
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1876
State/Affiliation: Pennsylvania
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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