11-04-200611-05-2006
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2337Boston
November 4, 2006 03:00 PMCalender
463

Framed Watercolor Playbill for the National Theater Performed Aboard the USS St. Lawrence,C.P. Sharey Artist/ C.W. B...

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$7,638$6,500
Auction: American Furniture & Decorative Arts - 2337Location: BostonDate / Time: November 04, 2006 3:00PM

Description:

Framed Watercolor Playbill for the National Theater Performed Aboard the USS St. Lawrence,"C.P. Sharey Artist/ C.W. Bishop Printer & Painter," watercolor and ink on paper, the playbill presents a colorful listing of the performances executed by the National Theatre for the Benefit of Edward Banks given on board the USS St. Lawrence at Valparaiso, Chili, on February 9th 1853; the performance featured three plays and two performances by the Fishers Minstrels; the polychrome ink and watercolor inscriptions are surrounded on three sides with watercolor and ink floral and geometric borders; at the top is a star spangled sunburst over a spreadwing eagle, the motto "United We Stand/Divided We Fall," and a multicolored and tasseled swag flanked by two American flags, (minor toning, creases, small tears and small edge losses),21 3/4 x 12 1/4 in., in a molded wood frame with gilt liner.

Note: The USS St. Lawrence was a frigate in the United States Navy. A frigate is smaller and faster than a battleship and used for patrolling and escort work rather than fighting fleet actions. She was launched early in 1848 and commissioned in August of that same year. Beginning in 1851, after assorted commissions, she spent the next three and one-half years cruising along the west coast of North and South America. In 1853, she became the flagship of the Pacific Squadron, serving until February of 1855. It was during this commission that the National Theater performance took place. The USS St. Lawrence served in various capacities through 1875.
Estimate $3,000-5,000

Keywords

Edward Banks, C.P. Sharey Artist/ C.W. Bishop , Divided We Fall, We Stand/Divided We Fall, United We Stand, United States Navy, west coast, South America, Pacific Squadron