"Guillaume Tell” Opera Comique Banner, 1864 Described “as a drame mise en musique” in three acts by Andre Gretry. French text was by Michel-Jean Sedaine based on a play of same name by Antoine Marin Lemierre. Set in 13th century Switzerland and portrays the heroic struggle of the liberty-aspiring Swiss patriots led by William Tell against the evil and oppressive Austrians under Guesler, the local governor. Performed in Bornhem, Belgium in 1864 as lettered in gold tape on bottom area of banner. “Guillaume Tell” lettered in gold tape at top of banner. Center of quiver and arrows appliqued with silver thread and gold tapes. 13 ½” long x 12” wide. Fringe of 3 ½” on three sides. Tassle at bottom corner of 10”. Backed with natural hand spun linen. Base of cinnamon-colored cotton velvet. Size: 36” x 37” Condition: some fading and wear on velvet and three stained areas. Lettering and applique with some wear and loss.