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1971-3467, Pincushion
Pincushion," Bright be thy Path Sweet Babe"
1971-3467, Pincushion

Pincushion," Bright be thy Path Sweet Babe"

Dateca. 1790
OriginGreat Britain
MediumCotton with steel pins and silk trim (fiber identification by Textile Lab)
DimensionsOH: 7" x OW: 8"
Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors
Object number1971-3467
DescriptionThis is a white, cotton dimity pincushion with white satin ribbon rosettes on three corners (one is missing and has been replaced). The top is stuck with pins forming a frame around the words "Bright be thy Path/ Sweet Babe". Rows of diamond motifs complete the pattern. The front and back are connected with a whip stitch.
Label TextLayette pincushions, like this one, were popular christening gifts during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. They often were decorated with pins that spelled out messages and greetings for the newborn. The pincushions were also practical gifts because pins were used for fastening clothes and other textiles together.
Inscribed"Bright be thy Path/ Sweet Babe"
ProvenanceThis pincushion was previously in the collection of Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen.