Executed in Philadelphia circa 1850. Painting by David Bustill Bowser (1820-1909).

James and Nancy Glazer, American Antiques, Bailey Island, Maine

Some wear around the edge of the top of crown. Little bit of wear on the rim of the brim. Repaired crease in the brim towards the back. Minor touch up along the edge of the brim and some inpainted scratches.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

With eagle on shield and sailing vessel in background, initialed W.A.P. on the front, with U.S. on the back.

David Bustill Bowser (1820–1900) was a cousin of the noted African-American abolitionist Frederick Douglass and studied art with his cousin Robert Douglass, Jr., a pupil of Thomas Sully. He began his career as a sign painter in Philadelphia, where he created emblems, hats, and parade banners for local fire companies and other local civic groups. He was actively involved in the antislavery movement, painted portraits of Abraham Lincoln and John Brown, and was commissioned to design regimental flags for the Union's 11,000 colored troops, who were organized at Fort William Penn in Elkins, north of Philadelphia, shortly after Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1863.

Another United States Fire Company Hat painted by Bowser is in the𝓰 collection of the Philadelphia Historical Museum.