Workbag
Dateca. 1820
OriginAmerica, Virginia
MediumSilk
DimensionsOverall: 8 × 9 1/2in. (20.3 × 24.1cm)
Credit LineGift of the Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA
Object number2023-227
DescriptionAn urn shaped work bag that closes with a draw strings made from silk ribbons. Each side of the bag is worked with a different floral sprig. The side seams of the bag are piped in contrasting pink silk.Label TextWorkbags served as practical accessories for storing small items- money, thimbles, knitting needles, gloves, handkerchiefs, glasses, and fans. However, they often served as needlework projects themselves. This example features flowers embroidered in silk thread.
ProvenanceDonated in 1958 by Ida Watkins Massie Valentine [1901-1982](Richmond, VA) to the Valentine Museum (Richmond, VA); 2023 transferred to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
