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Stunning Hand-painted 1876 Centennial Silk Banner

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Other Start Price:1,900.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
Stunning Hand-painted 1876 Centennial Silk Banner
<B>Stunning Hand-painted 1876 Centennial Silk Banner for Salem, Massachusetts</B></I> Our best guess is that this banner was created to carry in a ceremony or to hang in a booth or display at the Philadelphia Centennial. The entire back is taken up by a large "1876" form of interlocking gold letters. The Japanese theme of the central image is probably symbolic of Salem's role as a maritime center. Japan had been "opened" to the West into the 1850s, and remained quite the rage in the 1870s. Note the large western sailing ship in the background behind the Japanese maiden. The white dove with sprig in its mouth may symbolize peace and intercourse between East and West. Whatever the precise interpretation, it is indisputably a gorgeous period display piece. Condition is remarkably fine for a vulnerable silk banner. Although the band with the Latin phrase around the central device is evenly worn, the central image and surrounding leafy branches are excellent. It still has its original broad suspension loops across the top and both large blue decorative tassels. 56" x 69". Lot:253