Rare Needlework Sampler, Sally Mumford, Mary Balch's School, Providence, Rhode Island, circa 1810

Worked in silk stitches on a linen ground, signed at the bottom, Sally Mumford's work.

Sotheby's, sale number 5357, June 28, 1985, lot 42.

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art (p. 27, fig. 42)

Small hole above "American".
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's sampler is attributed to Mary Balch's school in Providence for in design and technique it is closely related to the sampler made by Nabby Dexter twenty-five years earlier and to others worked in 1796 and 1797. Sarah (Sally ) Remington Mumford (1798- 1830) can be identified by schoolbooks that descended with her sampler. She was the first of twelve children born to Benjamin B. Mumford and Hannah Remington of Newport. (Additional information provided by Carol and Stephen Huber).