Needlework Picture, Girl with Fruit on Riverbank
DateProbably 1800-1813
Artist/Maker
Samuel Folwell
(1764-1813)
MediumSilk embroidery and gouache on a satin weave silk ground, in a gilt, white pine frame (fiber identification by eye)
DimensionsFramed: OH 31" x OW 34"
Unframed: OH 24 1/2" x OW 27 3/4"
Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors
Object number1971.601.1
DescriptionThis is a framed needlework picture worked in shades of red, green, blue, beige, and brown silk embroidery threads and gouache on a silk ground. In the center of the composition is an oval watercolor scene of a young girl who wears a long white dress, a coral necklace, and red slippers. She is seated on an earthen mound underneath a tree. At her feet are disproportionately large pears, grapes, peaches, and other fruit. The girl holds a tendril of a grapevine in her (anatomical) left hand. To the right is a watercolor river. The wide border area is filled with a delicate garland of flowers and leaves embroidered in silk threads. The flowers are mostly gold in color with highlights of reds and blues, and greenish stems. There is a small gold embroidered bow in the bottom center holding the two sections of the garland together. Although the gilded, white pine frame is possibly original to the piece, the mat is a replacement.
Stitches: outline, satin, stem
Label TextThe painted scene that occupies the center of this picture was likely executed by Samuel Folwell. Folwell was an artist who patterned and finished needlework pictures worked by students who attended the school run by him and his wife, Ann Elizabeth Folwell. This picture is similar to one that is signed by Folwell.
ProvenanceAnonymous gift; no previous provenance known.
1660-1680
