1835 Humphry Phelps Declaration of Independence Original Hand-Colored Engraving

Description

Offered here is a rare original 1835 engraved and hand-colored “Humphry Phelps” Declaration of Independence, among the most visually striking and historically important nineteenth-century decorative presentations of America’s founding document.

First published in New York by Humphry Phelps in 1833, this monumental engraving combines the full text of the Declaration with elaborate patriotic ornamentation, state medallions, allegorical imagery, and facsimile signatures of the Founding Fathers.

Unlike later Centennial reproductions commonly encountered on the market, this example appears consistent with an authentic early nineteenth-century engraved issue with period hand-coloring.

Notable Features

This highly decorative composition includes:

• Large portrait medallion of George Washington
• Full facsimile text of the Declaration
• Facsimile signatures including John Hancock
• Ornamental borders and patriotic trophies
• Medallions representing the original states
• Revolutionary-era imagery and allegorical scenes
• Original period hand-coloring throughout

The visual impact is exceptional and highly displayable.

Historical Importance

The Humphry Phelps Declaration of Independence was issued during the great early-American revival of interest in Revolutionary history and followed earlier landmark Declaration engravings such as:

• Binns Declaration of Independence
• Stone Declaration

Phelps’ version became one of the most ornate and recognizable decorative Declaration printings of the nineteenth century.

Its bold typography, rich color, and highly decorative presentation made it especially popular for public buildings, schools, and patriotic display.

Authentic early examples are increasingly difficult to locate.

Approximate Size

Large folio format.

Approximately:

• 21 3/4 x 28 1/3 inches
  (please rely on photographs for exact proportions)

Condition

Condition is consistent with a genuine early nineteenth-century engraved broadside:

• overall age toning
• scattered foxing and staining
• edge wear
• creasing and handling marks
• small losses and separations
• mounting/framing remnants at top edge
• waviness from age and storage

The piece nevertheless retains outstanding eye appeal and strong color.

Please review all images carefully as they form part of the description.

Authenticity Notes

Based on visible engraving characteristics, typography, layout, and aging patterns, this example appears consistent with an original 1835 or early-period impression rather than a later lithographic Centennial reproduction.

No absolute guarantee is made regarding precise state or dating; buyers should perform their own due diligence.

Collector Appeal

An outstanding acquisition for collectors of:

• Americana
• Revolutionary War material
• Declaration of Independence engravings
• early American prints
• patriotic broadsides
• museum-quality wall displays
• historical ephemera

A dramatic centerpiece item with exceptional decorative presence.

Shipping

Will be packed and shipped with extreme care, fully insured.

Local pickup available if desired.