Towel, Fringed Linen
Dateca. 1781
Maker
Sarah Morris Wistar
(1758 - 1831)
MediumLinen; cotton (label and stitching thread; fibers identified by microscope)
DimensionsOL: 27 1/4" X OW: 19 1/4"
Credit LineGift of Beatrix T. Rumford
Object number2006-102
DescriptionThis is a white towel made from fancy weave geometric patterned linen. The rectangular towel is fringed on all four sides with remnants of cotton binding stitches along one side. A rectangular stitched-on cotton patch has a hand-written ink label that reads "Spun by Sarah Morris in 1781 she married Richard Wistar in 1782."The towel is stained overall.
Label TextAccording to the family history, Sarah Morris (Mrs. Richard Wistar) spun the thread for this textile in 1781. The expertly woven geometric diaper pattern may be the work of a professional weaver, rather than home production. The towel was probably part of a larger set of napkins or a tablecloth constructed from linen yardage.
InscribedA hand-written ink label reads "Spun by Sarah Morris in 1781 she married Richard Wistar in 1782."
ProvenanceSaid to be spun by Sarah Morris (1758-1831), who married Richard Wistar (1756-1821) in 1782. By descent through the family to Beatrix Rumford who donated the towel to the Art Museums.
1854 (dated)
1818 (dated)
1824 (dated)
1814 (dated)