35 x 71 1/2 in. hand-sewn and machine-sewn wool flag with 13 double-appliquéd cotton stars configured in 3/2/3/2/3 pattern (some areas of separation and small holes scattered throughout, some repaired areas particularly near fly end, occasional soiling, toning). Hoist is cotton with 2 brass grommets, and is inscribed on reverse side, "E.J. (?) Gardiner."

The size and construction of the flag suggest that it may have been used as a small US Navy boat flag during the late 19th century (ca 1870s-1880s). However, no further provenance or documentation accompanies the lot attesting to the flag's origins.