In Praise of America: A Key Event of Christie’s Americana Week

On July 4th, 1776, copies of the Declaration of Independence were sent to state assemblies and councils across the United States. The public acquired bold broadside copies only a few days later. One of these contemporary broadside editions is available for sale in the upcoming In Praise of America: Important American Furniture, Folk Art, and Silver auction, presented by Christie’s. The historical document belongs to a selection of important artworks from the collection of Ambassador J. William Middendorf II.  

Also available in the auction is a collection of folk art and early English ceramics. The listings include portraits by Joshua Johnson and significant works by Dat So La Lee. An initialed dish with a portrait of King Charles II is also on sale. It dates back to the period between 1662 and 1685, the middle of his reign. This two-day event is part of the auction house’s Americana Week. Visit Christie’s to view the entire catalog or place a bid.