Woman with back to viewer in blue skirt, red top both trimmed in gold, crown with shield on head with white veil falling down her back. Carrying an American flag and looking to her right.
The Star-Spangled Banner, a song written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, was a popular tune during the 19th century, especially at 4th of July celebrations. Though not recognized officially as the national anthem until 1931, Currier & Ives created two different allegorical portraits of freedom using the title of the song as their inspiration. Here, Lady Liberty wears a tiara with a shield displaying the stars and stripes and a veil decorated with stars. She carries the American flag as she strides forward toward freedom. Several phrases from the song emphasize the patriotic nature of the print: O! long may it wave, O’er the land of the free, And the home of the brave.