- 1048
GEORGE WASHINGTON: AMERICAN GOLD MOURNING PIN, CIRCA 1799
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
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Description
- GOLD, HAIR
- Length 1 5/8 in.
Enclosing six strands of hair stated to be George Washington's, in a chased gold surround, apparently unmarked. Together with envelope and paper packet: "Gen Washington's hair from Bettie G Webb / Given to her by Mr. Hamilton, to whom it was left by his mother, to whom it was sent by Lady Washington."
Provenance
Martha Washington (1731-1802);
to Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton (1757-1854);
to Col. James A. Hamilton (1788-1878);
to Miss B.G. Webb;
to Dr. J.C. Morris;
and by descent in the Morris family;
Brunk Auctions, Asheville, North Carolina, November 14, 2009, lot 408.
to Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton (1757-1854);
to Col. James A. Hamilton (1788-1878);
to Miss B.G. Webb;
to Dr. J.C. Morris;
and by descent in the Morris family;
Brunk Auctions, Asheville, North Carolina, November 14, 2009, lot 408.
Exhibited
Museum of Mourning Art, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania.
Condition
pin probably a replacement, gold discolored on back; paper with toning, fading and numerous folds and tears
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.
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
George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens requested a loan of the brooch in November, 2009 to display in a case devoted to the commemoration of George Washington.
Another lock of Washington's hair descended in a different family, sold Alexander Autographs, Stamford, Connecticut, May 13, 2009, lot 408.