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  UNUSUAL, ROUND, FELT PATCH OR STEIN COASTER, WITH CRIMPED BORDER AND THE ARMS OF THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY AT WEST POINT, circa 1920’s - 1950’s

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 10" x 10"
Flag Size (H x L): 5.5" x 5.5"
Description....:
Unusual large scale jacket patch or coaster, produced in the manner of felt collegiate and political textiles produced in the first half of the 20th century. Made for the United States Military Academy at West Point, the colorful graphics are printed in in golden yellow, red, white, blue, green, and brown on a circular disc of black, felted wool with a decorative, crimp-cut perimeter. The central image is the Academy's coat of arms, which consists of a spread winged eagle, perched upon a large, federal shield, 13 pales (vertical stripes), on which a sword and the helmet of Athena, Greek Goddess of War, are superimposed.

The eagle clutches oak leaves in its proper right talon, toward which the head of the eagle faces, and olive branches in its proper left. Emerging from behind the eagle are clusters of arrows to both sides and a billowing, red streamer that reads: "Duty, Honor, Country" the Academy's motto, with “West Point,” followed by the date of its founding in Roman numerals, "1802," and “U.S.M.A.” The words “West Point” appear in the bottom center and the device is encircled with a rope style border, both in golden yellow.

I have not before encountered an example of this particular format of printed felt textile, either representing West Point or any other entity, nor could I locate another. Whatever the case may be with regard to its intended use as a patch or a large coaster, perhaps intended for a stein, this is a beautiful patriotic object, with great presentation, from America’s most hallowed military institution.

Mounting: The textile 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 related objects and have framed thousands of examples.

The antique, solid walnut molding has a shaped profile with a convex center, dates to the period between 1860-1870, and retains its original gilded liner. The background is 100% natural hemp fabric or a hemp and cotton blend, ivory in color. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is U.V. protective.

Condition: Excellent.
Collector Level: Intermediate-Level Collectors and Special Gifts
Flag Type:
Star Count:
Earliest Date of Origin: 1920
Latest Date of Origin: 1950's
State/Affiliation: New York
War Association:
Price: SOLD
 

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