Images(7)

Pocketbook

Date1770s

OriginAmerica

MediumWool

DimensionsOL unopened 8 1/2 in. OW unopened 4 1/2 in. OW opened 8 in.

Credit LineBequest of Grace Hartshorn Westerfield

Object number1974-263

DescriptionThis is a pocketbook embroidered in wool with flamestitch pattern in shades of brown, pink, green, beige, blue, and black. Folds in three parts. The upper flap is cut in three parts. The pocketbook has binding and tie strings of pink wool tape. The pocketbook is lined in pink glazed wool. Pocketbook has four pockets inside and two stiffened dividers.
Label TextStitched in Time:
Needlework pocketbooks, common accessories in the mid-18th century, were owned by both men and women. Like wallets today, they were used to store money and papers. Personalization in the form of initials, owners' names, and the names of makers are frequently noted in lost and found notices for pocketbooks.

While some pocketbooks were made of leather or silk, many were worked. Irish stitch, sometimes modernly called flame stitch, was the favored method of decoration. The stitch is characterized by zig-zag slopes and vibrant use of color. In the 18th century, Irish stitch was popular for accessories, like pocketbooks and shoes, as well as upholstery.
ProvenancePrior to 1974, Grace Hartshorn Westerfield (Camden, ME); 1974, given to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)