Lot Details
Description
A NORTHEASTERN EMBROIDERED BIRCHBARK BOX AND ALMANAC
the interior of the lid with a label inscribed in manuscript 'Made by the converted Iroquois and Algonquin from the Lake of the Two Mountains on the River Ottawa / RB 1843' together with an almanac variously inscribed in ink and also inscribed by Robert Berkeley 'Algonquin Almanack' (2)
box: 6cm. high, 13cm. wide, 8cm. deep; 2¼in., 5in., 3in.
Condition Report
This object has been stored in non museum conditions for some time and it shows. The threads faded and discolored. With losses to embroidered details and ingrained dirt. The hinge of the box corroded. Would benefit from some sensitive conservation. The almanac is in very good condition although there is a fold down the centre of the piece.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Cataloguing
Provenance
Robert Martin Berkeley (1823-1897)
Literature
Inventory, 1893, ‘Specimens of North American embroidered bark work’ in the Museum Room (and the proceeding lot)
Catalogue Note
Robert Martin Berkeley departed for New York on 15 June 1843 aboard the SS Great Western. He almost certainly acquired this box and the three lots which follow during the period he spent in North America in the second half of that year.
