Lot 644
  • 644

Rare Needlework Sampler, Silk Embroidered Picture: "Eagle", Anonymous, Philadelphia, dated 1820

Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 USD
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Description

  • silk on linen
  • Height 21 1/2 in. by width 25 in.
  • dated 1820
Worked with silk threads on a linen ground; the name of the stitcher is worn away.

Provenance

The Edgar William and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch Collection, Part II, a sale at Sotheby's, sale number 3637, lot 33, May 8, 1974

Exhibited

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art  (p. 40, fig. 67)

Condition

Some mellowing of linen color; thread loss in name and date; frame and glass appear to be original.
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

The earliest-known example of this Philadelphia form was worked in 1816 (see Glee Krueger, A Gallery of American Samplers, p. 51). With the exception of the eagle, that piece is remarkably similar to an English sampler of 1795 that names Andrew and Elizabeth Brunell, another Philadelphia example, much like this one, was worked by Rebecca Skinner in 1827 and names the E. Brunell School. The likely connection between the English sampler and the Philadelphia teacher is yet to be determined. Philadelphia directories list only Andrew Brunell from 1816 to 1859, as a mariner, a rigger, a ship carpenter, a shopkeeper, and finally, a gentleman. Possibly his mother was a schoolmistress; his widow's name was Mary.