1970s Bicentennial Era Betsy Ross Embroidered Folk Art - Framed Philadelphia Independence Hall Scene - Americana

Details

Description

An evocative piece of American folk art history, this hand-embroidered tableau captures the legendary moment when Betsy Ross stitched the … Read more An evocative piece of American folk art history, this hand-embroidered tableau captures the legendary moment when Betsy Ross stitched the first American flag in her Philadelphia home. Created circa 1976 during the nation's Bicentennial celebration, this needlework exemplifies the patriotic fervor and craftsmanship revival that swept America during its 200th anniversary.
The composition presents Betsy Ross seated in her colonial interior, working on the emerging Stars and Stripes. Through the window, Independence Hall's iconic silhouette anchors the scene in historic Philadelphia. Period furnishings include a Federal-style hutch displaying decorative china, while a contented feline companion adds domestic warmth. Elegant scrollwork frames the vignette, executed in muted greens with floral accents.

What distinguishes this piece is the remarkable preservation of the wool yarn - the patriotic red, white, and blue retain their intensity nearly five decades later, while accent colors remain equally vibrant. The stitchwork demonstrates considerable skill, with varied techniques creating texture and dimension throughout the scene.

Historical Context:
The 1976 Bicentennial sparked a nationwide renaissance in traditional American crafts. Households created commemorative needlework as both celebration and heirloom - tangible connections to the founding story. As we approach 2026's Semiquincentennial, this piece offers collectors a bridge between America's 200th and 250th anniversaries.

Styling Notes:
This folk art piece brings authentic Americana warmth to traditional, colonial, or eclectic interiors. The heavy wooden frame and classical subject matter suit formal settings, while the handmade quality adds approachable charm. Ideal for gallery walls alongside historical prints, in libraries with American history collections, or as a focal point in patriotic displays.


Dimensions: 26" W x 22" H x 2.5" D
Hand embroidery on linen ground
Wool yarn with exceptional color retention
Heavy wooden frame with warm brown finish
Glass glazing
Unsigned (characteristic of period craft kits)

Style: Folk Art, Americana, Colonial Revival, Bicentennial
Year Made: Circa 1976
Country of Origin: United States See less