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  AN AMERICAN FOLK ART MASTERPIECE: CIVIL WAR PERIOD AMERICAN FLAG QUILT WITH AN EAGLE PERCHED ON A GLOBE AMIDST 34 STARS, 1861-63, PROBABLY OF NEW YORK ORIGIN

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 97" w x 97.5" t
Flag Size (H x L): 94.5" x 92.5"
Description....:
AN AMERICAN FOLK ART MASTERPIECE: CIVIL WAR PERIOD AMERICAN FLAG QUILT WITH AN EAGLE PERCHED ON A GLOBE AMIDST 34 STARS, 1861-63:

This exceptional patriotic American flag quilt features a large spread-winged eagle, perched on a globe, amidst 34 stars. Made during the opening years of the Civil War, 1861-63, the graphics are particularly striking. The pitch of the eagle's wing to the viewer's left is mirrored by that of the tail in the opposite side. Together with the turned head, these characteristics provide an element of movement within the design that is visually intriguing among the fat, starfish-shaped stars that point in various directions on their vertical axis. Note that there are 13 of these above the eagle's wings and 21 below. The use of 13 stars on pro-Union, Civil War objects draws a parallel between the struggle for liberty in America during the Revolution and the more current battles for freedom between the North and South.

The presence of an eagle on an American flag in any form is especially desired due to both its rarity and beauty. While the geographical origin of the textile is not known, the image of an eagle standing upon a globe is one that can be seen on the New York State seal. Because it is also present on flags with known New York origin, as well as drums and other decorative objects, New York origin is a good guess. Over the years I have witnessed the fact that when I see an eagle in this style, and I know where the object comes from, it is almost invariably of New York State origin.

The quilt is made of cotton, hand-pieced and hand-quilted in a style called "interlocking chain", which resembles ocean waves. This provides a subtle, artistic flow that adds nicely to the overall design. The head of the eagle, including its beak and eye, are represented by hand-embroidery with black cotton floss.

The quilt is two-sided, which is especially rare. Most have a solid back, made of plain or calico fabric, or else are pieced in a simple design, such as bars or concentric squares. Almost none repeat the complete design on the reverse. Here the elements are back-to-back.

In summary, this is a hand-made, dynamic, folk art masterpiece among known American flag quilts, with unusual construction and especial desirability due to the eagle and its Civil War period date.

Mounting: The quilt was hand-stitched to 100% silk organza for support throughout. It was then hand-stitched to a background of black cotton twill, which 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. A custom, supportive strainer was made to support the mount. 2" square aluminum tubing was used so that the mount would retain its shape. A piano hinge allows the mount to be folded so that it can be more easily transported.

Condition: On this side of the quilt there are a couple of very tiny fabric pops and very minor staining, none of it distracting. The white stripes are nicely toned and there is very minor overall fading. The colors could be best described as strong. There is a 1.25-inch L-shaped tear in one of the red stripes that was repaired and minor fraying on the edge binding along the bottom. The reverse side has much more significant wear, including fading and a few large darning repairs. It's especially attractive on the reverse, but this side is superior.
Collector Level: Flags for the truest Patriots. My best offerings
Flag Type: Sewn flag
Star Count: 34
Earliest Date of Origin: 1861
Latest Date of Origin: 1863
State/Affiliation: New York
War Association: 1861-1865 Civil War
Price: SOLD
 

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