Boston Schoolgirl Needlework Picture Titled "Fetching Water,"

Description:

Boston Schoolgirl Needlework Picture Titled "Fetching Water," "Wrought by M.A. Hale at Mrs. Rowson's Academy Hollis St. Boston," c. 1814, depicting a young woman carrying a baby, with a pitcher poised to fetch water at a well, in a landscape with cottage, trees, and animals; worked in solid-stitched silk, wool, and chenille threads on a linen foundation with painted sky, water, and background, (tears to background sky),sight size 22 1/2 x 16 1/2 in., in an eglomise mat with gilt title and maker's name and school, in a later molded giltwood frame; accompanied by a collection of letters written by Mary Ann Hale to her father William Hale of Dover, Massachusetts, addressed to him in Washington, D.C., when he was there as a member of Congress; some of the letters comment on the progress she has made on her embroidery and getting it framed, and also mentions Mrs. Rowson, the proprietor of the Academy, among other bits of news.
Estimate $1,500-2,500

The painted background may be on paper or silk on a linen foundation, The tears are at the u.l. area spreading about 6 to 10 in. long or so.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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