The object of the day: Handpainted silk trade banners

The unique handpainted silk trade banners were made to illustrate the various trade groups represented in the Maine association. Each year a special parade would take place, and members (blacksmiths, shipbuilders, printers, masons, butchers, etc.) would carry these banners - representing their trade.
The group of 17 banners was estimated between $125,000 and $225,000, and sold on James D. Julia Auctions for $125,350. The price was exciting news, but the buyer and the circumstances of purchase were even more newsworthy. The winning bidder was Richard D'Abate, Executive Director of the Maine Historical Society. D’Abate represented a consortium of many Maine historical institutions.