A Fine Embroidered and Painted Silkwork Picture: George and Martha Washington with the Custis Children, Boston, Attributed to Susanna Rowson's School, (John Johnston, painter), Boston, circa 1800

the faces attributed to John Johnston (1753-1818); painted and embroidered on silk, the faces and hands painted on silk, with background riverscape depicting shipping; black glass mat missing; original frame.

Stephen and Carol Huber, Old Saybrook, Connecticut, January 21, 2003

please note that the frame is a reproduction, not original as stated in the catalogue; loss to upper right corner; loose thread on right near frame; otherwise in good condition
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.

Boston's most celebrated girls school of the Federal period was opened in 1797 by Susanna Haswell Rowson, an English-born novelist, playwright, and actress who performed with her husband in several American cities before retiring from the stage at the age of thirty-five.  Despite the disadvantage of a recent career in theatre, this clever and hard-working woman quickly gained respect as a teacher, and her school was well patronized until her retirement in 1822.

Mrs. Rowson taught in Boston from 1798 until 1800 when she moved her school to Medford.  In June of 1803 she commenced teaching in Newton, where in June of 1805 she was joined by her half-brother's widow, Mary Cordis Haswell.  By May of 1807, they had returned to Boston and were located on Washington Street, near Roxbury.  Susanna's husband, William Rowson, was a clerk in the Custom House, but by 1809, the success of Susanna's seminary had enabled him to purchase a house on Hollis Street and in 1811 it became the final home of the Rowson School.  Mrs. Rowson's many school advertisements described the needlework and other accomplishments she was prepared to teach.   

Betty Ring, Girlhood Embroidery, Volume I, pp. 88-93.