1838 William Woodruff Declaration of Independence | Original Engraved Broadside
Description
Offered here is a rare original 1838 “Woodruff” Declaration of Independence engraving, one of the most important and visually recognizable nineteenth-century decorative facsimiles of America’s founding document.
Published in New York by William Woodruff, this monumental engraved broadside is celebrated for its dramatic patriotic design, featuring:
- the full text of the Declaration of Independence,
- facsimile signatures of the signers,
- portraits of Washington, Jefferson, and Adams,
- elaborate federal military trophies,
- and medallions representing the original thirteen states.
This example appears consistent with an authentic early engraved impression from the original 1838 issue or an early nineteenth-century pull, rather than a later Centennial lithographic reproduction.
Historical Importance
The Woodruff Declaration of Independence followed the great early Declaration engravings of:
- Binns Declaration of Independence
- Stone Declaration
- Humphry Phelps Declaration of Independence
and became one of the finest ornamental interpretations of the Declaration ever issued in the nineteenth century.
The design is notable for its:
- sweeping oval arrangement of state seals,
- highly detailed engraved signatures,
- patriotic eagle and flag display,
- and rich neoclassical ornamentation.
Authentic early impressions are increasingly scarce and highly sought after by collectors of Americana and Revolutionary history.
Approximate Size
Large folio engraved broadside.
Approximately:
- 20 1/2 x 29 1/2 inches
(please rely on photographs for exact dimensions and margins)
Condition
Condition is consistent with a genuine early nineteenth-century American engraved broadside:
- overall age toning
- scattered foxing and staining
- creases and fold lines
- edge wear and small losses
- waviness from age and storage
- mounting remnants
- surface wear and handling marks
Despite condition issues, the piece retains exceptional decorative and historical display appeal.
Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
Authenticity Notes
Based on visible engraving characteristics, paper aging, typography, and overall appearance, this example appears consistent with an original 1838 or early-period engraved impression rather than a later lithographic Centennial reproduction.
No guarantee is made regarding exact state or dating; buyers should conduct their own due diligence.
Collector Appeal
An outstanding acquisition for collectors of:
- Americana
- Declaration of Independence engravings
- Revolutionary War material
- early American prints
- patriotic broadsides
- historical ephemera
- museum-quality display pieces
An impressive and historically important wall display with exceptional visual presence.
Shipping
Will be packed with extreme care and shipped fully insured.
Local pickup may also be arranged.
Description
Offered here is a rare original 1838 “Woodruff” Declaration of Independence engraving, one of the most important and visually recognizable nineteenth-century decorative facsimiles of America’s founding document.
Published in New York by William Woodruff, this monumental engraved broadside is celebrated for its dramatic patriotic design, featuring:
- the full text of the Declaration of Independence,
- facsimile signatures of the signers,
- portraits of Washington, Jefferson, and Adams,
- elaborate federal military trophies,
- and medallions representing the original thirteen states.
This example appears consistent with an authentic early engraved impression from the original 1838 issue or an early nineteenth-century pull, rather than a later Centennial lithographic reproduction.
Historical Importance
The Woodruff Declaration of Independence followed the great early Declaration engravings of:
- Binns Declaration of Independence
- Stone Declaration
- Humphry Phelps Declaration of Independence
and became one of the finest ornamental interpretations of the Declaration ever issued in the nineteenth century.
The design is notable for its:
- sweeping oval arrangement of state seals,
- highly detailed engraved signatures,
- patriotic eagle and flag display,
- and rich neoclassical ornamentation.
Authentic early impressions are increasingly scarce and highly sought after by collectors of Americana and Revolutionary history.
Approximate Size
Large folio engraved broadside.
Approximately:
- 20 1/2 x 29 1/2 inches
(please rely on photographs for exact dimensions and margins)
Condition
Condition is consistent with a genuine early nineteenth-century American engraved broadside:
- overall age toning
- scattered foxing and staining
- creases and fold lines
- edge wear and small losses
- waviness from age and storage
- mounting remnants
- surface wear and handling marks
Despite condition issues, the piece retains exceptional decorative and historical display appeal.
Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
Authenticity Notes
Based on visible engraving characteristics, paper aging, typography, and overall appearance, this example appears consistent with an original 1838 or early-period engraved impression rather than a later lithographic Centennial reproduction.
No guarantee is made regarding exact state or dating; buyers should conduct their own due diligence.
Collector Appeal
An outstanding acquisition for collectors of:
- Americana
- Declaration of Independence engravings
- Revolutionary War material
- early American prints
- patriotic broadsides
- historical ephemera
- museum-quality display pieces
An impressive and historically important wall display with exceptional visual presence.
Shipping
Will be packed with extreme care and shipped fully insured.
Local pickup may also be arranged.
