1889 Benjamin Harrison Inaugural Ball Engraving Washington DC March 4 For Sale

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1889 Benjamin Harrison Inaugural Ball Engraving Washington DC March 4:
$72.50

An original engraved leaf from the official souvenir program for the inaugural ball of President Benjamin Harrison, held in Washington, D.C., on March 4, 1889.

The central allegorical composition depicts a winged female figure descending toward seated and standing figures, with the United States Capitol visible in the distance. Across the upper portion of the engraving is the event identification: “Inaugural Ball, March 4, 1889, Washington, D.C.”

This leaf was originally part of the elaborate ribbon-bound inaugural ball program produced by Bailey, Banks & offerdle of Philadelphia. The two punched holes along the margin are original binding holes through which the program’s ribbon passed.

A handsome surviving piece of late-19th-century presidential inauguration ephemera, with strong visual appeal even separated from the complete program.

Details

Title: Inaugural Ball, March 4, 1889, Washington, D.C.

President: Benjamin Harrison

Place: Washington, D.C.

Printer/Publisher: Bailey, Banks & offerdle, Philadelphia

Date: March 4, 1889

Format: Engraved leaf from ribbon-bound inaugural ball souvenir program

Sheet Dimensions: Approximately 7 1/8 × 9 1/8 inches

Image Dimensions: Approximately 4 3/8 × 6 3/8 inches

Condition

Antique condition with overall toning and scattered soiling, staining and discoloration consistent with age. Creasing and handling wear are present, with some edge wear and an old tear extending into the margin. Reverse shows additional discoloration and evidence of previous mounting or storage. Two punched holes along the margin are original to the ribbon binding of the inaugural program and are not later damage. Engraved image remains clear and well defined. Please review photographs for condition.

Topic

Benjamin Harrison; Presidential Inauguration; Inaugural Ball; Washington DC; American Presidency; Political Ephemera; 19th Century American History

Subject

Benjamin Harrison; 1889 Presidential Inauguration; Inaugural Ball; Washington DC; Bailey Banks & offerdle