AN AMERICAN NEEDLEWORK SAMPLER, NANCY BENT, FRAMINGHAM, MIDDLESEX COUNTY, MASSACHUSETTS, CIRCA 1791

worked in silk and wool on canvas; with verse, Fear thou the Lord and Prize him more Than shining gold and richest ore For when they Worldly Treasures past The Fear of God will everlast.

Amy Finkel, M. Finkel and Daughter, Philadelphia, August, 2002

New frame. Discolored ground color; some fading in text silk.
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.

Nancy Bent was born July 8, 1784 and worked her sampler in the seventh year of her age—approximately six years old when she made this piece.  A genealogy of the Bent family will accompany this lot.

For a related sampler by Anna Brown from Middlesex County, Massachusetts, see Betty Ring, Girlhood Embroidery, Volume I, p. 77, fig. 75.