Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
Antique Flags > American Flags

DRAMATIC, CIRCULAR FLAG FAN OF UNCOMMONLY HUGE SIZE, WITH UNUSUAL CONSTRUCTION, MADE IN THE WWI ERA (1917-18), CAREFULLY CONSERVED AND PRESENTED IN A DEEP, CUSTOM-MADE SHADOWBOX

DRAMATIC, CIRCULAR FLAG FAN OF UNCOMMONLY HUGE SIZE, WITH UNUSUAL CONSTRUCTION, MADE IN THE WWI ERA (1917-18), CAREFULLY CONSERVED AND PRESENTED IN A DEEP, CUSTOM-MADE SHADOWBOX

Web ID: pat-146
Available: In Stock
Frame Size (H x L): 41.5" x 39.25" x approx. 4" deep
Flag Size (H x L): 30.25" x 28"
 
Description:
This is the largest, circular, paper fan that I’ve ever encountered. Unique in my experience in flag-related objects, it was probably made in the orient, for the American market, circa WWI (U.S. involvement 1917-1918), and perhaps for use in oriental dance or patriotic decoration. The design is too unwieldy for use in either cooling oneself or others.

The construction is highly unusual. The canton is painted blue. The 48 stars, arranged in 8 staggered rows of 6, are painted as well, probably applied with a carved, vegetable stamp. The red stripes, which at first glance appear to be printed, are actually applied and made of crepe paper. The ground is heavy, ivory colored, paper stock. The hand-carved wooden sticks, slightly longer than the diameter of the fan, are ebonized (painted black).

The 48 star flag became official on July 4th, 1912, following the addition of New Mexico on January 6th of that year, and the and the addition of Arizona on February 14th, Valentine’s Day, immediately after. The 48 star count remained official throughout WWI, WWII (U.S. involvement 1941-45), and the Korean War (1950-53), until Alaska gained statehood in 1959 and the 49th star was added.

Mounting: The fan has been carefully hand-stitched to 100% hemp fabric. A shadow box was created to accommodate both the depth of the object and increase the visual impact of the presentation. The black-painted, hand-gilded and distressed molding is Italian. The glazing is U.V. protective acrylic (Plexiglas).

Condition: A number of tears and weak areas were carefully mended with thin, archival, paper tape from the reverse. The ivory colored areas have oxidized over time to a golden tan.
Video:
   
Collector Level: Advanced Collectors and the Person with Everything
Flag Type:
Star Count: 48
Earliest Date of Origin: 1917
Latest Date of Origin: 1918
State/Affiliation: Arizona
War Association: WW 1
Price: Please call (717) 676-0545 or (717) 502-1281
E-mail: info@jeffbridgman.com


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