Needlework Rug

Date1937

Artist/Maker Abby Aldrich Rockefeller (Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.) (1874-1948)

MediumWool and canvas

DimensionsOverall: 43 3/4 x 43 1/2in. (111.1 x 110.5cm)

Credit LineGift of the John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, Fund, Inc., through the generosity and interest of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, and members of the family.

Object number1996.BH.398

DescriptionThis square needlework rug is composed of nine squares worked separately to form one rug. Each square has an intricately shaded, stylized plant or flower in the center on a beige ground and is worked in tent stitch on a canvas ground. The flowers include tulips, carnations, pansies, and grapes. Each square is surrounded by a curvilinear vine. A dark brown border surrounds the carpet and separates each square.

STITCHES: tent

Label TextThis is one of two square needlework rugs made for use on the stair landings at Bassett Hall, which Abby Aldrich Rockefeller completed in July 1937. A comment in her letter to Lucy Aldrich dated June 25, 1937 indicates that Mrs. Rockefeller had some help with this project from her sister's companion, Miss McFadden: "Speaking of rugs reminds me that I have finished all my needlework square except one, which I probably will finish before I go to Seal Harbor the middle of July. I am wondering how Miss MacFadden has gotten along with hers and how I will get them when they are finished."
InscribedThere are no marks or inscriptions.
ProvenanceMade by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller (1874-1948) and placed in Bassett Hall;
Given to CWF, 1979.

MAKER HISTORY: Abigail Greene Aldrich was born October 26, 1874 to Senator Nelson Wilmarth Aldrich and Abigail Pearce Truman Chapman. She attended Miss Abbott’s School for Young Girls, from which she graduated in 1893. She married John D. Rockefeller, Jr. on October 9, 1901. Bassett Hall was their house in Williamsburg.