A RARE NEEDLEWORK SAMPLER, SARAH REED, BURLINGTON COUNTY, NEW JERSEY, DATED 1830

worked in silk stitches on a linen ground.  Signed Sarah Reed's work wrought in the 13th year of her age.  Daughter of Solomon Reed + Mary...1830.

Amy Finkel, M. Finkel and Daughter, Philadelphia, November 1997

Ground color slightly darkened; some minor fading and discoloration. Appears to retain its original bird's-eye maple corner block frame and glass.
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.

Sarah Reed's sampler is part of one of the most important group of Quaker samplers worked in Burlington County, New Jersey.  A virtually identical example worked by Sarah's sister, Ann, also in 1830, was recorded but unpublished by Betty Ring.  Other examples are the "compendium sampler" dated 1827, sold in the Americana Collection of the late J. Amory Haskell, Parke-Bernet Galleries, New York, 1944, and the sale of the Collection of Joan Stephens, Sotheby's, January 19, 1997, sale 6942, lot 2076.

Other related examples were included in Hail Specimen of Female Art!, New Jersey Schoolgirl Needlework 1726-1860, Princeton, New Jersey, The Morven Museum, October 3, 2004 - March 29, 2015.

Genealogical information on the Reed family of Burlington County, New Jersey will accompany this lot.