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

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 31" x 35.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 20.25" x 24.5"
Description....:
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, WITH TEXT AND REPRODUCED SIGNATURES, MADE FOR THE 1876 CENTENNIAL INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION:

Printed on cotton, 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 vibrant, royal blue 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 seldom owned a loose example. These also exist with a red border instead of blue.

Mounting: The kerchief has been hand-stitched to a background of 100% hemp fabric. The mount was then placed in a gilded French molding with a classic American profile, to which a black liner with a rippled profile was added. The glazing is U.V. protective acrylic.

Condition: There is minor foxing and staining and there are minor tack holes along the left-hand edge. Hand-sewn binding along the top and bottom edges were removed to expose the entire textile.
Collector Level: Intermediate-Level Collectors and Special Gifts
Flag Type:
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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