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An original circa-1898–1900 silk handkerchief commemorating Admiral George Dewey as “The Hero of Manila,” created following his celebrated American naval victory at the Battle of Manila Bay.
The corner vignette features a finely printed portrait of Dewey in uniform above crossed American flags, a naval cannon, and laurel branches. A scarce surviving piece of Spanish-American War textile ephemera combining American naval history, patriotic material culture, and turn-of-the-century printmaking.
DETAILS
Date: Circa 1898–1900
Subject: Admiral George Dewey
Inscription: “The Hero of Manila / Admiral Dewey”
Historical period: Spanish-American War
Material: Fine ivory-colored silk
Decoration: Printed portrait with American flags, naval cannon, and laurel branches
Form: Square commemorative handkerchief or souvenir scarf
Edges: Finished with delicate hemstitching
Measurements: roughly 16 1/4\" x 17 1/4\"
Origin: United States, presumed
CONDITION
Good antique condition with age-related toning, established fold lines, wrinkles, and scattered faint discoloration consistent with a silk textile more than 125 years old. The printed portrait remains unusually crisp and legible, with muted but visible patriotic color.
Please examine all photographs closely, as they form an important part of the condition description. No cleaning, pressing, or restoration has been attempted.
COLLECTOR NOTES
On May 1, 1898, Commodore George Dewey commanded the United States Asiatic Squadron during its decisive victory over the Spanish fleet at Manila Bay. The victory made Dewey a national hero and inspired an extraordinary range of commemorative objects, including printed silks, ribbons, ceramics, photographs, and patriotic souvenirs.
This handkerchief belongs to that immediate period of American popular commemoration. Its silk construction and finely rendered corner portrait distinguish it from the more commonly encountered paper and metal souvenirs produced in Dewey’s honor.
HOHM PROVENANCE
Carefully sourced for the HOHM collection with a focus on historically resonant objects that bring material culture, craftsmanship, and quiet history into the modern home.
OFFERS
All reasonable offers are warmly welcome—please don’t hesitate to send one!
SHIPPING
This antique textile will be carefully packed with archival-minded protection. I reuse quality boxes and packing materials whenever possible. Shipping is fully insured and handled promptly.
POLICIES
All sales are final. Please email with any questions prior to purchase—I’m happy to provide additional photographs or details.
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