This very fine pillar and arch paper, inspired by the British architectural patterns of the 1760s and 1770s, is probably the first American design which features allegorical symbols. Like most architectural papers, it was probably hung in a hallway though it may have also been used in a parlor or bed chamber.

The allegorical characters include Britannia (seated), an amorous couple consisting of a patriot (perhaps George Washington) and a symbolic "America" in the form of an Indian Princess. The patriotic figure is handing a document inscribed "4 July 1776" to the weeping Britannia. The paper may well be derived from an earlier Philadelphia original where the inscription "4 July 1776" does not appear on the document. The Cooper Hewitt collection also has an identical document printed on a white ground.

This pattern is licensed to Adelphi Paper Hangings by Historic New England.

Repeat: 42 inches
Width: 19¾ inches
Straight Match

The historic colorway shown above is double width; alternative colorways are single width.