Lot 618
  • 618

Rare Needlework Sampler, Rebecca Wells, probably Burlington County, New Jersey, circa 1830

Estimate
10,000 - 20,000 USD
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Description

  • silk on linen
  • Height 17 in. by 17 3/4 in.
  • circa 1830
worked in silk threads on a linen ground with ribbon side borders; signed Rebecca Wells. In its original mahogany veneered frame; paper label in plastic sleeve on reverse with two slips inscribed in pencil Worked in 1806.

Provenance

Good and Hutchinson, Antiquarians, Massachusetts, Tolland, April 10, 1984

Exhibited

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art (p. 35, fig. 56)

Condition

Some minor darkening of linen in lower left corner; retains original green silk ribbon and waht appears to be the original veneered frame.
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

Rebecca's sampler has its original mahogany-veneered frame that is typical of pieces worked in this area, c.1825-1840. "Extract," the cross-stitched floral sprays, and the swan suggest Quaker instruction. A similar undated sampler, with the same verse and building, was in the Alexander W. Drake Collection (see The Delineator, September 1903, p . 300); also, Emma Dubel worked a piece with the same border and many similar motifs in 1831 (her sampler, formerly in the George A. Plimpton Collection, was sold at Skinner Galleries' Sale 1098, May 30, 1986, Lot 153).