25680

A Rare Early Printing of the Declaration of Indep

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:4,000.00 - 6,000.00 USD
A Rare Early Printing of the Declaration of Indep
<B>A Rare Early Printing of the Declaration of Independence on Silk</B></I> Printed circa 1820, and picturing at the top George Washington, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson (two of whom were still living at that time). Made in France for the American market by "H. Brunet et Lie, Lyons, France," it was based on the 1818 print on paper published by O. Rogers, Philadelphia. The text of the Declaration is surrounded by the seals of the original thirteen states. Unpictured in Collins' definitive <I>Threads of History,</B></I> although Collins refers to its existence in his description of a very similar design lithographed by "Decomberause" of Lyons, which he lists as No. 57 on page 72. Interestingly, Collins calls it a "bandanna," but the distinctly rectangular shape is more consistent with a broadside on silk, a common practice of the time. The other similar examples listed by Collins are more square and might better be considered bandannas. Condition is very nice, especially for this notoriously fragile genre. There is only a little very minor, light water staining which is hardly noticeable; no tears, and only one tiny 1/4" hole. Measures 23.5" x 31.5" in vintage frame (not glued down). These desirable pieces are rarely seen on the market. An example in the bandanna format, with much more prominent staining, brought nearly $4,000 in Slater's Americana's July, 2004 sale.