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DESCRIPTION
A large antique American printed silk commemorative handkerchief honoring Rear Admiral George Dewey and the United States naval victory at Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War.
The center features a commanding portrait of Dewey in naval uniform, framed by a circular rope-form wreath with an American eagle above and crossed flags below. A striking stars-and-stripes border surrounds the entire textile, with blue star fields positioned at all four corners.
Printed beneath the portrait:
“Rear Admiral George Dewey, U.S.N.”
“The Hero of the Manila Fight”
Measuring an impressive 20½ inches square, this is a visually powerful piece of Spanish-American War history and late-19th-century patriotic Americana.
DETAILS
Object: Commemorative handkerchief or scarf
Subject: Rear Admiral George Dewey
Historical event: Battle of Manila Bay
Conflict: Spanish-American War
Date: Circa 1898–1900
Material: Printed silk
Origin: United States
Maker: Unknown
Colors: Cream, red, blue, black and gray
Dimensions: 20½ inches × 20½ inches
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
Rear Admiral George Dewey became one of the most celebrated American naval figures of the late 19th century following the United States victory at the Battle of Manila Bay on May 1, 1898.
His sudden national fame inspired commemorative banners, handkerchiefs, textiles and other patriotic objects. The inscription “The Hero of the Manila Fight,” together with Dewey’s rank of Rear Admiral, dates this silk to the immediate commemorative period following the battle.
CONDITION
Antique condition with prominent historic fold lines, overall age toning and scattered yellow-to-tan discoloration and staining, particularly along the left side and lower portion. Additional minor surface wear and small age-related imperfections may be present in the delicate silk.
The textile retains strong graphic impact and remains highly displayable. Please review all photographs closely, as they form an important part of the condition description.
COLLECTOR NOTES
A desirable piece for collectors of Spanish-American War memorabilia, George Dewey material, American naval history, patriotic textiles, military ephemera and Gilded Age Americana.
The unusually large 20½-inch-square format, boldly rendered portrait and extensive American flag imagery give this textile exceptional decorative presence. It would make a compelling display when archivally framed.
HOHM PROVENANCE
Selected by Hohm for its historical importance, striking graphic character and remarkable survival as an ephemeral late-19th-century silk textile.
Antique and vintage objects carry the marks of their history. Surface wear, fading, discoloration, textile irregularities and other evidence of age are regarded as part of the object’s authentic character and are documented whenever apparent.
SHIPPING
This delicate antique silk will be folded only along its existing historic fold lines, layered with acid-free tissue, protected against moisture and securely packed in a rigid outer box. Tracking and insurance will be included as appropriate.
RETURNS
Due to the age, rarity and delicate nature of this antique textile, returns are not accepted. Please review all photographs, measurements and condition information carefully before purchasing. Questions are always welcome prior to purchase.
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