Rare broadside engraving of the Declaration of Independence, 21 x 28, with dedication along the bottom, “To the People of the United States this Engraving of the Declaration of Independence is most respectfully inscribed by their fellow citizen, Wm Woodruff,” and "Copy Right Secured, Published by Phelps & Ensign 7½ Bowery, N.Y.” Declaration text set within an ornate frame formed by a wreath and seals of the thirteen original colonies, and topped by a vignette of flags, an American Heraldic Eagle, and portraits of Washington, Adams, and Jefferson. Matted and framed to an overall size of 29.75 x 37. In good to very good condition, with repairs to several tears, some to edges and some to body, small areas of paper loss and defects, scattered light soiling. Woodruff’s broadside is perhaps more scarce and desirable than the more familiar copies produced by William J. Stone or Peter Force. His uniquely designed circa 1841—1843 creation was patterned after an 1819 version and is the original copy once used to make commemorative versions for the nation’s 1976 Bicentennial celebration. A visually pleasing example.
