LOT #42228 |
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Henry Clay: Awe-Inspiring Patriotic Parade Costume....
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Description
Henry Clay: Awe-Inspiring Patriotic Parade Costume. When we first saw this, our immediate reaction was that it was an Uncle Sam costume, of the type popular in the 1890-1920 period. Then we noticed the name Clay, then the name Frelinghuysen, then the portrait of Henry Clay. Unbelievable! This has got to be one of the greatest presidential campaign items ever! Apparently, some inspired seamstress of the Whig persuasion took two or more portrait flags of Clay and fashioned this outfit. It consists of a vest-type jacket and a pair of pants. The pants are 37" long with two pockets, a four button "zipper" (lacking the top button), an adjustable cinch or strap on the back waist and two cuff straps designed to wrap around the sole of each shoe. The back of the pants have inscriptions "Clay And..." on each leg (one appearing backwards). There is some aging and light staining, along with some minor 19th century repairs. One of the cuff straps is missing a button. The jacket is 27 1/2" tall. Each sleeve is inscribed "Clay and Frelinghuysen" (one appearing in reverse as the flag was sewn inside out). The back shoulder area has a large portrait of Henry Clay within a wreath. There are two red buttons sewn on the back. The front is secured with five blue buttons made from the canton of the flag (one button is detached, but included with the lot and easily sewn on). There is light aging and some scattered stains, but it is generally in excellent condition, especially considering its age. If you're a political collector, this is about as good as it gets! This should have a great crossover appeal to political collectors, Henry Clay specialists, flag specialists or anyone in love with Americana and American design. We rarely use this appellation, but this is truly a museum piece!Auction Info
2015 May 18 Americana & Political Grand Format Auction - Dallas #6145 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
May, 2015
18th
Monday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 5
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 4,126
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25% on the first $100,000 (minimum $14), plus 20% of any amount between $100,000 and $1,000,000, plus 12% of any amount over $1,000,000 per lot.
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