Needlework Picture of Pastoral Scene by Unknown Maker
Date1750-1755
MediumCrewel wool and silk embroidery threads on linen, wood, and glass (fiber identification by eye)
DimensionsNeedlework sight W: 23 3/8" H: 14" Frame W: 2 3/8"
Credit LineGift of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller
Object number1936-782
DescriptionThis is a rectangular wool embroidery panel in faded shades of blue (probably once green), tan, beige, brown, natural, rose and black, alongside ivory silk, on a coarse linen canvas. The scene depicts a woman picking flowers or fruit, a woman with long garland of flowers, and a man with two baskets. In the foreground, three spotted dogs chase a stag through a verdant landscape planted with strawberry bushes. To the right, three sheep and a rabbit lie just in front of the man’s feet. Two spotted dogs flank the scene, standing to the left and right of the group of three figures. In the background stands three laden fruit trees whose branches serve as perches for birds and squirrels. Another group of birds flies in formation overhead. The black painted and sand gilt-spandreled frame is not original to the piece; this was added in 1952 at Old Print Shop in New York.
Stitches: Flat
Label TextThis crewel work picture shares motifs with a group of Boston "fishing lady" pictures; the strawberries, chase scene, and kneeling woman in particular are found on several related pieces.
ProvenancePurchased by Mrs. Rockefeller from The Downtown Gallery, 113 W. 13th Street, New York, New York in 1936.
Probably 1832-1835
1650-1675
1676 (dated)
Late 18th, early 19th century
1660-1680
1786 (dated)
1775