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  44 TUMBLING STARS IN AN HOURGLASS FORMATION, ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG OF THE 1890-1896 PERIOD,, REFLECTS WYOMING STATEHOOD

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 20.75" x 15.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 13.25" x 7.75
Description....:
44 star American parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton. The stars 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.

Wyoming became the 44th state 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.

Note how the stars vary in their vertical position from one to the next, alternating point-up, point-down consecutively across each row. This adds a nice visual element to the flag’s design. I have termed this sequence "tumbling stars."

Note also how the blue pigment extends beyond the canton, down the hoist end, which adds visual interest and displays the eccentricities of the hand block printing used to produce such examples in the 19th century.

Mounting: The flag was placed in its correct vertical position, with its stars in the upper left. It 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 two-part veneered mahogany molding dates to the Empire period, between 1830 and 1860, and thus pre-dates the flag by approximately 30-60 years or more. The beveled, inner portion retains its original early surface, while the rectangular cap was painted gold, probably in the late 19th century. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass.

Condition: There is some age toning in both the blue canton and the white stripes, but the over condition is excellent for the period.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
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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