[Paper hanging 68]. 19th century, Library of Congress collection

Wallpaper design accompanied by printed label describing the pattern: "Number Sixty Eight. Design of double columns, ornamented with grapes and vine leaves. Another part ornamented with losanges, placed horizontally forming the intervals. Messrs. Virchaux & Co. by right, obtained from Joseph Ramee, intend to execute this design of his invention, on every different ground, with correspondent colours, at their manufactory of Paper Hangings."
Date from inscription on the companion sheet of design 68, LOT 14054, no. 10-a.
Exhibit caption: The distribution rights for this wallpaper design by Joseph Rameé were obtained by the Philadelphia firm of Messrs. Virchaux & Co. Philadelphia had become the center of wallpaper production in the United States by the end of the eighteenth century, although French influence continued to dominate the design of domestic papers. Subjects ranged from commemorative and panoramic scenes to designs drawn from architecture and nature, like the garland adorning these two tromp l'oeil columns.
Exhibited: "American Treasures," Library of Congress, 2001-2002.