Woodrow Wilson Art Appraisal

Woodrow Wilson 1917 Inauguration Pennant

This item is a 1917 Inauguration Pennant, specifically for Woodrow Wilson's inauguration. It is sized at 28 inches in length and is crafted from blue felt, which appears to be in very fine condition with no visible signs of mothing or significant degradation. The primary visual element is a silk-screened portrait of Woodrow Wilson, situated centrally on the pennant. The portrait is framed by two American flags, crossed behind him, with their staffs extending upwards and their bases tied with an ornate golden ribbon or bow. Above the portrait, the text 'PRESIDENT WOODROW WILSON' is printed. To the right of the portrait, the pennant boldly announces 'INAUGURATION DAY' in large, capitalized lettering, followed by 'WASHINGTON, D.C.' and 'MARCH 5TH 1917' in slightly smaller script. The lettering, flags, and portrait details are rendered in a combination of white, red, and golden-yellow inks, providing a clear contrast against the deep blue felt background. The edges of the pennant are cleanly cut, indicating good manufacturing quality for its time. On the left side, typical of pennants, there are several light-colored fabric or cardboard ties for display purposes, suggesting it would have been hung or affixed. Despite its age of over a century, the pennant exhibits remarkable preservation, with vibrant colors and minimal wear visible on the felt or the silk-screened elements. The overall craftsmanship suggests it was a mass-produced commemorative item, yet its excellent condition indicates careful preservation. The visible details confirm its historical context and purpose as a political souvenir from an early 20th-century presidential inauguration. The item's provenance from the collection of Ed Sullivan adds further historical and potential collectible value.