The large carving from a single piece of light colored sandstone shows Uncle Sam seated, but withdrawing from a huge rattlesnake with its tail surrounding a building. Two men are lying atop the snake, one holding a US flag. The rattlesnake has consistently over the history of the United States been used to suggest the strength of states rights from the “Don’t Tread on Me” flag to the modern Tea Party. SIZE: 43-1/2″ l x 7-3/4″ w x 6″ h. PROVENANCE: From the personal estate collection of John W. Armiger Jr. CONDITION: Very good. 49055-59 WAG (400-600)