Handkerchief

Date1820-1830

MediumCotton, roller printed.

DimensionsWidth 32" (both selvages present); Length (Warp) 28"

Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors

Object number1971-1445

DescriptionHandkerchief roller printed in brown (sepia) with border scenes and a central motif; the field is red. The central eight lobed medallin depicts four women as the seasons standing on a globe showing Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. Each border shows the activities associated with the seasons: Skating, two harvest scenes, May dance, and planting. Figures are wearing costumes consisting of high-waisted dresses on the women; top hats and tail coats with knee breeches on the men. Dates of costumes are consistent with 1820s.
Markings"S.G." embroidered in silk, for Gardner family, New England.
ProvenanceEx-Coll. Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen, Mrs. Stroud on Nantucket. According to tradition, the initials embroidered in the corner are those of a member of the Gardner family of New England. Note accompanying handkerchief (in file) states handkerchief "came from Nantucket to Gardner family- S.G.- initals in corner. 150 years in Mrs. Stroud's family."