Rare Embroidered and Painted Silk Mourning Picture, S. Isham, probably Hartford, Connecticut, circa 1811

Worked in silk, chenille, paint, and ink on silk; inscribed on the glass and the monument.

Kennedy Galleries, Inc., New York;

Carol and Stephen Huber, October 21, 1985

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art  (p. 88, fig. 40)

Overall very 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.

Sally Taintor Isham (1796-1869) was the daughter of Colchester merchant and lawyer Joseph Isham (1735-1910) and his second wife, Esther Taintor (c. 1756-1834). The figures are probably Sally with her mother, her half brother Alfred (b. 1769), her brother Ralph (b. 1776), and younger brothers Roger (b. 1797) and Charles (b. 1799).
On July 28, 1829, Sally married Gardiner Southworth (1792-1851)
of Natchez, Mississippi. They were childless.

Sally Isham's husband Gardiner Southworth was from Colchester, Connecticut.  It is not known why he went to Natchez, Mississippi.  He returned to Colchester where they resided. (Additional information provided by Carol and Stephen Huber).