Images(13)

Woman's Watch Chain, Beadwork

Date1835

Maker Ann LaRue

OriginAmerica, New England

MediumGlass beads, black silk ribbon

DimensionsWith Ribbon: OL 47" x OW 3/8" Without Ribbon: OL 43" x OW 3/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2002-26

DescriptionThis is a long, narrow, beadwork strip ending in ribbon rosette and loops. The purple and white glass beads are woven eleven across to form motifs that include: three diamonds, two hearts, three diamonds, flowers, rosebuds, flower in pot, basket, hearts, key, dog, and the name "Ann La Rue," and date "May The 6 1835."
Label TextWoven into this beaded watch chain is the name Ann LaRue and the date "May the 6 1835." It is not known whether the date had any significance or whether this was simply the date the chain was completed

Also known as “watch guards,” beaded watch chains were popular amongst women during the 1830s, especially in New England. Many chains were made as presents for a loved one while others were available to purchase ready-made. It is possible that the fashion for beaded watch chains originated in female academies and seminaries, where students sometimes learned beadwork alongside other crafts. Each chain was decorated with a unique pattern of symbolic motifs. Sometimes, chains also included a name, date, or verse.
Inscribed"May The 6 1835"
ProvenanceColonial Williamsburg purchased this piece from M. Finkel & Daughter. No further provenance is known.

Candidates for our Ann LaRue were found in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, but it is not possible to know which one is our owner.

Exhibition(s)