Images(2)

Workbag

Dateca. 1795

OriginAmerica, Connecticut

MediumCotton

DimensionsOverall: 7 3/4 × 8 3/4in. (19.7 × 22.2cm)

Credit LineGift of the Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2023-232

DescriptionAn ovoid shaped draw string bag work bag worked in bullion, French knot, backstitch, and buttonhole stitches. The various embroidery stitch create a central floral motif bordered with bullion flowers. An outside border is created with a twisted cord and French knots. The bag is also decorated on the side and bottoms with 4 large tassels. It is made from a fine cotton muslin and is worked in a single layer. There is no lining to the bag.
Label TextThe variety of embroidery stitches used to create this workbag would have made this a perfect project for a young woman looking to show off her needlework skills. The distinctive raised curls are created through the use of bullion knot, or bullion stitch.
ProvenanceIn 1972 donated to the Valentine Museum (Richmond, Va) by Emily Brinley Morgan Crosby [1903-1979](Philadelphia, PA); 2023 transferred to The Colonial Williamsburg Collection (Williamsburg, VA).