I just cannot walk away from color like this. And I find it a very wonderful thing that the birth of a child should be recorded and celebrated in such a glorious way. Here: Johannes Esjchleman born on March 31, 1803. (I believe I've got it right--often names were spelled phonetically; I've found a record for a "John" Eshleman born on the same day in Lancaster, PA to father Johannes, certainly this is he.) Best here is the following inclusion: "und sein zeigen ist der lowe," translating to "and his sign is the lion." Born on March 31, it seems his sign was not really that of the lion (Leo), but from what I understand, the sign of lion was often invoked on fraktur birth and baptismal certificates, carrying associations of strength, courage, and the "Lion of Judah," intending to place the child under spiritual protection. It appears our Johannes lived to the age of 72 and had five children, all his life in Lancaster County, PA.
8 1/2" x 6" framed, original frame and glass I believe. Fraktur and frame both in good condition, ink and watercolor strong and bright. Some general toning/soiling to the paper, all of a piece.
