A stunning period lithograph capturing the essence of American liberty.
This lithograph, produced by Currier & Ives in the mid-to-late 19th Century depicts the two principal pillars of American identity; unity, represented by the Star Spangled Banner and liberty, rendered as Lady Liberty.
Used as the frontispice in the book "The American Flag:Two Centuries of Concord and Conflict" 2007, VZ Publication, Santa Cruz, Ca.
This lithograph bears the Star Spangled Banner and Lady liberty, crowned with an American crest, who bears the American flag as she points forward to victory. The fires of battle burn in the distance -- presumably the defense of Fort McHenry by American forces during the British attack on September 13, 1814 (during the War of 1812); the conflict which inspired Francis Scott Key to write 'The Star Spangled Banner'.
Several phrases from the song The Star Spangled Banner serve as the title printed in the lower margin: "O! long may it wave,/ O'er the land of the free,/ And the home of the brave."
The lithography firm of Currier & Ives was founded in 1834 by Nathaniel Currier as N. Currier, Lithographer, and based in New York. In 1852, he brought his brother-in-law, James Merritt Ives, into the business and renamed the firm Currier & Ives five years later. They were extremely prolific and highly successful, producing almost 7,500 different art prints issued separately throughout the 19th century until 1907; aptly advertising themselves as "Print-makers to the American People." Their prints were issued in small, medium and large folios, though some particularly popular images were issued in more than one size.
Dozens of American artists in the mid 19th century painted primarily for lithographic reproduction enterprises run by Currier & Ives and other firms. To please a broad audience, the firm presented a warm and positive vision of America, frequently sentimental, and sometimes with a touch of humor. Currier & Ives prints generally portrayed the American landscape, scenery and landmarks, including the westward expansion, as well as daily life in both urban and rural settings. Their sporting and maritime subjects were particularly popular. These prints are now highly desirable as a record of 19th century American history, as fine works of American art, and for their decorative appeal.
This is a well documented Currier & Ives Lithograph - Conningham #5707 & Gale #6119
Exhibition History:
First Presidio Exhibit
(ZFC0315)
Lithograph, "The Star-Spangled Banner"
Second Presidio Exhibit, 2003- Gallery II
(ZFC0315)
The Star Spangled Banner Lithograph
Provenance: Acquired by the Zaricor Flag Collection (ZFC0315) in 1998 from Wesley Cowan Auction of Cincinnati, OH.
ZFC Significant Flag
Item is Framed
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