Description:

RARE CIVIL WAR SANITARY COMMISSION LECTERN, 1864.
Comprising a unique, one-of-a-kind custom-made walnut lectern. The shaped side supports with turned baluster form stretcher, and each side similarly and profusely carved with 13 stars above a relief carved ribbon from which hangs a laurel wreath planchet centered with a carved artists pallet and brushes and with gilt incised text, "U.S. SANITARY 1864". The upper portion with integral carved rectangular box with carved banding and hinged lid opening to reveal a velvet lined interior and, on either side, pull out writing surfaces inset with green leather and gilt punched banded borders. Height 41 inches, width 30.5 inches, depth 24.5 inches. Likely made for the New York or Philadelphia (which President Lincoln visited) Sanitary Fair both of which took place in 1864 The United States Sanitary Commission (USSC) was a private relief agency established during the American Civil War to support the Union Army. It was authorized by the federal government to provide medical and sanitary assistance to the troops, filling a gap in the government's preparedness and resources. The USSC focused on improving hygiene, providing medical supplies, and offering advice on health and sanitation to soldiers and military leadership. The USSC aimed to improve the health and well-being of Union soldiers by providing medical care, supplies, and advice on sanitation. It was formed in 1861, partly in response to the perceived inadequacies of the existing Medical Bureau and was inspired by the British Sanitary Commission and the work of women's relief societies. The USSC's activities included: Distributing medical supplies, food, and clothing. Inspecting and advising on camp sanitation and hygiene. Establishing hospitals and convalescent homes. Providing advice and support for the organization of military hospitals and camps. Educating soldiers and the public on health and sanitation practices. The USSC played a significant role in improving the health of Union soldiers, reducing diseases, and providing critical support during the war. It also helped to standardize and improve medical practices within the army. The USSC was primarily funded by private donations and fundraising efforts, including Sanitary Fairs, which were often large and elaborate in scope and included a variety of pavilions displaying a myriad of items including fine art displays to attract attendees and raise money. The New York Fair held in 1864, also included an exhibition of paintings, featuring works like Albert Bierstadt's "Rocky Mountains" and Frederic Edwin Church's "Heart of the Andes". The high quality of the offered lot would suggest this piece was made especially for one of the larger fairs and likely for the Fine Arts pavilion given the artist pallet and brushes motif carved on either support. The integration of fine art into these fairs not only served as a fundraising tool but also contributed to creating a sense of national identity and shared purpose during the war. A truly unique and one-of-a kind item from this important organization run primarily by women.

  • Condition: Important Notice: The absence of condition information in the description does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition, a condition report is available by request.

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August 19, 2025 9:00 AM CDT
Cedar Falls, IA, US

Jackson's International

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