This listing is for an antique print titled "The Flags of the Principal Nations in the World." It was published by S.A. Mitchell at No. 8 1/2 South Seventh Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This piece was created in 1837 and according to our research, it was used by sea captains and others to identify the nationality of ships encountered at sea. It has some yellowing and wear from age including some minor tears around the edges and creases from folding. The print is currently framed under glass and the frame has scuffs and small dings. If requested by the winning bidder, we can remove the print from the frame to save on shipping costs. This listing has no reserve price so don't miss your chance to win!
The winning bidder can pick up this item at our store in Winooski, Vermont to save on shipping charges. All local pickups are subject to 6% Vermont state sales tax.
Approximate measurements:
- Print: 22.5" x 18"
- Frame: 27.5" x 22.5"
From flagcollection.com:
"Flags of the Principle Nations of the World", 1837. Philadelphia, Published by S.A. Mitchell, 1837. This hand colored print is typical of charts used by sea captains, ship chandlers and others to identify the nationality of ships encountered at sea. Notable is the inclusion of the Republic of Texas as an independent nation.
"This is a chart used by sea captains to identify the nationality of ships encountered at sea. Entitled, "The Flags of the Principal Nations of the World," it was made with printed copper engraving, hand colored, and was published in Philadelphia in 1837. Of special interest is its showing of Texas as a separate "nation," represented by its naval ensign of 13 alternating red and white stripes and a blue canton bearing a single star. The more familiar Lone Star Texas flag, now flown as the Texas state flag, was not adopted until 1839. The principal use of flags during the 18th and the early 19th centuries was to identify the nationality of a ship at sea. To this end, hand-colored charts of the mercantile and naval flags of the world's nations were necessary for maritime commanders. Publishers utilizing this copper engraving process would hand-color their prints for customers willing to pay extra."