Frame Size (H x L): 20.5” x 20.5”
Flag Size (H x L): 7” x 10” and Affixed to an 11” Staff

Offered is a forty-eight star handmade flag made entirely of tatting.  Tatting is a form of lacemaking.  It involves wrapping thread around one or two shuttles, and then using the shuttle to guide the thread into patterns of knots to create rings and chains into the overall design.  This gorgeous flag is based on a pattern from a 1950s workbook.   

The forty-eight star flag represents the inclusion of New Mexico and Arizona to the Union.  New Mexico was admitted on January 6th, 1912, and Arizona was admitted on February 14th, 1912.  The forty-eight star flag became official on July 4th, 1912.  Presidents Taft, Wilson, Harding, Coolidge, Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman, and Eisenhower all served under this flag.  World Wars I and II, and the Korean War were all fought under it. 

The forty-eight star flag was official for forty-seven years up until July 4th, 1959, the time at which the forty-nine star flag became official and began to represent the inclusion of Alaska in the Union.

Conservation Process: This flag was hand sewn to cotton fabric, and both were hand sewn to a mounting board.  To prevent the black dye in the cotton fabric from seeping into the flag, it was first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash.  The flag is positioned behind Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: The antique frame dates to between 1860 and 1890.  

Condition Report: The staff has some minor staining, but in all other respects, this flag is in excellent condition.  

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Rising Collectors  
Date of Origin: 1950-1959
Number of Stars: 48
Associated War: Korean War
Associated State: Arizona