Needlework Picture of Pastoral Scene by Unknown Maker

Dateca.1750

MediumWool embroidery threads on a linen canvas (fiber identification by eye) in a wooden frame and under glass Bound in a silk cord and lined in silk

DimensionsFramed: OW 18 3/8" x 18 5/8" Actual: OH 15 1/8" x OW 16 1/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1955-149

DescriptionThis is a framed almost square needlework picture worked in shades of green, rose, blue and white wool embroidery threads on a linen ground. In the center of the scene is a pair of figures, a shepherd and a shepherdess. The shepherdess wears a pink dress and a hat with a blue ribbon; the shepherd wears a blue coat with a red waistcoat and a brown hat. Both the shepherd and the shepherdess hold crooks; the shepherd also holds what appears to be a flask. To the left of the shepherdess is a basket with what appears to be another flask. In the foreground are several sheep; a rabbit sits to the woman's left while a dog sits to the man's right. The shepherd and shepherdess are flanked by a pair of trees; a squirrel sits in the left-hand tree while a bird sits in the righthand tree. Several farm buildings are visible in the background.
The picture is bound with dark green silk cord and lined with pink silk damask.

Stitches: tent
Label TextPastoral scenes were popular subjects for needlework pictures in England and America during the eighteenth century. They reached the height of their popularity during the mid-eighteenth century, around the time this needlework picture was completed.
ProvenanceAcquired from Mrs Roger Bacon of Exeter, New Hampshire in 1955.