Needlework Picture by Unknown Maker

Date1750-1780

MediumWool and silk embroidery threads on a cotton ground with ink outlines (fiber identification by Textile Lab)

DimensionsOH 26 3/4" x OW 30 3/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1983-314

DescriptionThis is a diamond-shaped needlework picture worked in red, yellow, green, blue, gray, brown, and black wool and silk embroidery threads on a cotton ground. The scene shows a two-story house set within a landscape of rolling fields. The house is surrounded by trees, strawberry plants, and a pond. Animals, including birds, ducks, a rooster, a butterfly, deer, cows, and a squirrel, are scattered throughout the landscape. A female figure wearing a short petticoat stands to the right of the house. A man and a woman accompanied by a black, spotted dog are nestled between two trees to the left of the house. In some areas, ink outlines are visible.

Stitches: chain, flat, herringbone, outline, satin
Label TextThis picture shares motifs with needlework produced in New England, the strawberries and spotted dog in particular are found on several related pieces.
ProvenanceColonial Williamsburg purchased this piece from Salvatore A. Rizzuto in 1983. Mr. Rizzuto purchased it from Miller & Arney Antiques in Washington, D.C. Miller & Arney purchased the piece from an agent who was representing a pair of collectors. The collectors purchased it from an antiques dealer in Baltimore, Maryland.