Lot 508
  • 508

Fine and Rare Needlework Sampler, Betsy Gail, Marblehead, Massachusetts, circa 1790

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • silk on linen
  • Height 17 1/4 in. by width 14 3/4 in.
  • circa 1790
Worked in fresh-colored silk threads on a linen ground; signed along the bottom, Betsy Gails sampler aged 9 years.

Provenance

Bihler & Coger, Ashley Falls, Massachusetts

Exhibited

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art (p. 11, fig. 15)

Condition

Some mellowing of linen; colors vibrant with minor fading; frame not original.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

Betsy had difficulty crowding this verse within her border.

Plain as This Canvas was as Plain we Find
Unletterd Unadornd The Female Mind
No Nice Ideas Fill The Vacant Soul
No Graceful Colouring Animate The Whole
With Close Attention Carefully In wrought
Fair Education Paints the Pleasing Thought
Inserts the Curious Lines on Proper Ground
Completes The: Work And Scatters Roses round


Betsy Gail (b . 1781) was the daughter of Captain Samuel Gail (b . 1725) and Mary Blackler (1742-1829). Probably she was the Elizabeth Gale who married Elias Briars in Marblehead on April 21, 1799.