This fantastic 13 star
flag is of the style and form of an ensign of the U.S.
Navy that made and used in the period circa 1850-1860.
The 4-5-4 pattern in particular came into use in the
early- to mid-19th century, but generally fell out of
use as a pattern on small boat ensigns by the Civil War
period in favor of the 3-2-3-2-3 pattern. This
particular example is of exceptionally fine form and
quality. The flag is entirely hand sewn. The
cotton stars are double-appliquéd and very carefully
hand sewn with a fine thread, likely made of silk or a
silk blend, for strength. The tips of the stars
are blunted, or folded under, which is a trait seen on a
small handful of American flags that pre-date the Civil
War. The flag is beautifully
proportioned and relatively small, at under
approximately 68" on the fly and 34" on the hoist.
The wool bunting is of extremely fine quality, and
overall the flag is in extremely fine condition, with
only a minor loss in the top right corner and some
repairs to the top left grommet. This indicates
that the flag was used, but only very briefly, and then
stored under excellent conditions for the past 150 or
more years. The flag exhibits virtually no
staining or other losses, and looks essentially like the
day it was made. Written on some of the stars, in
very faint pencil, are numbers, presumably corresponding
to the cut stars. The maker of the flag was
particularly careful to precisely align the stars, the
tips of which tilt to the 10 o'clock position. The
numbers may indicate mated stars or star positions, are
a good indication that the flag, which was clearly made
to very exacting standards and was professionally
manufactured, rather than being a homemade flag.
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