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2023.403.1, Theorem
Memorial for E. Cooke
2023.403.1, Theorem

Memorial for E. Cooke

Dateca. 1825
Artist Unidentified
OriginAmerica, North Carolina, Salem
MediumWatercolor and ink on velvet
Credit LineGift of The Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA
Object number2023.403.1
DescriptionMemorial theorem depicting a weeping willow on right and a large monument on left. The monument is inscribed "Sacred to the memory of E. Cooke." The whole composition is within a large black painted border.
Label TextThis mourning picture is believed to have been painted at the Salem Female Academy. Founded in 1772, it is known as Salem College today and is the oldest private school in the state of North Carolina. Eleanor Norfleet Cooke likely painted this memorial on velvet after the death of her grandmother, Elizabeth Jefferies Green Cooke in 1824.
Provenanceca. 1824, Eleanor Norfleet Cooke Sloan [1812-1892] (Franklin Co., NC) who is believed to be the artist; by 1892, by inheritence to her daughter, Caroline Jefferies Sloan Tutwiler [1842-1901] (Franklin Co., NC); by 1901, by inheritence to her daughter, Eleanor Cooke Tutwiler Sclater [1863/64-1934] (Lexington, VA); by 1934, by inheritence to her daughter, Caroline Sloan Sclater [1989-1982] (Henrico Co., VA); 1974, donated to The Valentine Museum (Richmond, VA); 2023, transferred to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)