Antique Asian Embroidery for the American Naval Market, Circa Early 20th Century

Item Details

An antique Asian embroidery for the American naval market, circa early 20th century. The black cloth panel is embroidered with metallic and silk threads depicting a spread-winged eagle with a glass eye above a patriotic, shield-shaped frame. Directly below is a watercolor painting of a United States battleship, possibly the USS Oregon (BB-3) or one of the vessels from the Great White Fleet, set against a group of American flags. The panel is further embellished with an anchor flanked by crossed canons and canon balls over a banner reading ‘E Pluribus Unum’. It is housed behind glass in a wooden, black-painted frame with a hanging wire on the verso.

The USS Oregon (1896-1956) was a pre-dreadnought Indiana-class battleship nicknamed ‘Bulldog of the Navy’. The ship spent two tours of duty in East Asia, lasting from 1896 to 1906. Likewise, the Great White Fleet, consisting of sixteen U.S. Navy battleships, toured the globe between 1907 and 1909. This piece was likely obtained as a souvenir by one of the Asiatic Fleet’s sailors to commemorate his journey.

• Please note, this is an item that may be especially difficult to move and/or transport. Unless shipping arrangements are available and made by the winning bidder, that individual is advised to bring appropriate assistance, vehicle, proper materials, and any necessary tools to pickup.

Condition

- panel is faded with tears, losses, and loose threads; some foxing to painting; strips of tape along edges of panel to secure it to frame/backing; frame with scratches, scuffs, and marks.

Dimensions

- measured frame; visible panel is 25.375" W x 43.875" H.

Item #

17DCC325-555