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 This
extremely rare flag is one of a pair of flags that
surfaced together in a single lot, with nearly identical
construction and qualities. The other flag,
IAS-00316, features 12 stars, whereas this flag
features 15 stars. Aside from the difference in
star count, both flags are made of wool bunting with
single-appliqué cotton stars. Both flags are
nearly the same size, and are entirely hand sewn.
On this flag, the stars peek through to what in modern
times is considered the front of the flag, whereas on
the 12 star flag, the stars peek through to the back of
the flag. Both flags have brass grommets, and both
have cantons made of the same blue wool bunting, which
is of a finer weave than the wool of the red and white
stripes. This flag has all of the qualities
expected on a flag made for Navy use as a small boat
flag, and it's my belief that this is the flag's
purpose. Navy ensigns of 16 stars and 20 stars
that date to the Civil War period are well known, though
scarce. Yet these two flags are the only that I'm
aware of in the unusual counts of 15 and 12. More
commonly, 13 star flags in either the 4-5-4 or 3-2-3-2-3
pattern were also used for this purpose. But the
unexpected star counts of 16, 20, and these of 15 and
12, have symmetrical blocks of large stars that nearly
fill the canton. Very few antique American flags
of any period feature 15 stars. The beautiful
folky quality of this flag, with its large stars, which
rotate freely on their axis, along with its
extraordinary condition and rare small size, and most
important, the only small boat flag in this star count
that I am aware of, make it exceptionally rare and
important early American flag. |
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Next:
13 Stars, Cowpens Pattern,
William Henry Harrison 1840
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