Rare Embroidered and Painted Silk Mourning Picture, Lydia Royce's School, Hartford, Connecticut, circa 1809

Worked in silk, chenille, and velvet applique and paint on silk with ink on paper; inscribed on the plinth, Tribute of Affection, to the Memory of Mary Bidwell.

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art (p. 84, fig. 136)

Very good overall condition; some discoloration of the paper inset; abraisions in the sky.
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.

Attributed to Sarah Gray Bidwell (1796-1864), the only daughter of Barnabus Bidwell (1763-1833) and Mary Gray (1764-1808), who lived in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Bidwell served as Massachusetts attorney general and U.S. Congressman, and Sarah's mother was a first cousin of Ezra Stiles. The figures probably represent Sarah, her father, her maternal grandmother, Sarah Spring Gray (1736-1809), and her brother, Marshall Spring Bidwell (1799-1872), who became a noted Canadian statesman.