White Basket with Fruit

Dateca. 1830

OriginAmerica, Massachusetts, Boston (probably)

MediumWatercolor and gold-foil collage on wove paper

Dimensions11 1/4" x 14 1/2" unframed; 15 1/4" x 18 1/2" framed.

Credit LineGift of the John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, Fund, Inc., through the generosity and interest of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, and members of the family.

Object number1979.303.2

DescriptionAn arrangement of stenciled fruits in a white basket.
The 2 1/2-inch cyma recta molded oak frame refinished with brown stain is possibly original.
Label TextThe use of gold foil paper to accent the rim, base, and handle of the basket and the careful shading to indicate the woven texture of the basket are features also seen in acc. no. 1931.303.4. Reportedly found in Boston, both pictures were acquired by Mrs. Rockefeller at the same time [note 1]. The compositions may have been intended for use as companion pieces or perhaps were produced by classmates.
MarkingsAn embossed paper mark at upper left of the primary support shows a lion standing on the left side of a shield and a unicorn on the right, with the word "PAPIER" below.
ProvenanceFound in Boston, Mass., by Edith Gregor Halpert, Downtown Gallery, New York, NY, and purchased from her November 9, 1931 by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller for use in Bassett Hall, the Williamsburg home of Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Given to C.W.F. in 1979.