Large 59” X 94” mid-19th century American flag, likely a U.S. Navy Boat Flag. The flag is hand-sewn, wool bunting, featuring thirteen (13) single-appliqued, white, five-point, cotton stars, in the traditional  4 over 5 over 4 star-pattern on the blue, two-piece canton, with 13 alternating red and white stripes forming the field. The roped hoist is integral to the original construction, further reinforcing the likely maritime use. The hoist bears a faded, illegible ink inscription. The flag is mounted onto a fine mesh backing for stabilization and conservation and is mounted to a 20th-century red painted wood staff tipped with a gilt spearhead.  Flag measures: 94” W x 59” H. Staff: 75” H.

PROVENANCE: Private Knoxville, Tennessee collection.

The flag is used, worn, and thinned with multiple losses, the largest to the canton and left lower margin. The flag been stabilized with a mesh backing.  The staff and the ropes are in good condition.  

Private Knoxville, Tennessee collection.