Embroidered Potholder

Periodca. 1740 - 1770

MediumPlied silk thread on linen

Dimensions7 × 7.5 in. (17.8 × 19.1 cm)

InscribedStitched in center, "AB"

SignedThe pot holder is initialed "A B."

ClassificationsNeedlework

Credit LineGift of Mrs. J. Amory Haskell, 1934

Object number708.2

DescriptionA small square tightly-woven linen panel with rounded corners, worked in plied silk embroidery threads in shades of dark green, medium green, light olive green, deep salmon pink, rose, pale pink, pale yellow, and black. The floral motif is comprised of a large central stylized rose in graduated shades of pink worked in satin stitch, edged with green leaves. The rose is flanked on either side by vining tendrils sporting smaller roses and rosebuds, all worked in pink shades with green leaves. The stems and vines extend from a curving green base. The entire design appears to have been first drawn in with ink, then embroidered. The intials "A B" are worked in cross stitch in fine black silk thread immediately below the central rose bloom. The back of the panel is lined with slightly coarser linen and bound with narrow woven linen tape. A 2 1/2 inch loop of the same narrow linen tape is sewn to the top center of the panel.
Curatorial RemarksKnown only as "A B," the unidentified maker of this decorative pot holder may well have been a young girl who created this decorative accessory for her mother or other female relative. The ability to sew and embroider well was one of the hallmarks of a genteel education. It is quite likely that the young girl who created this panel also completed a sampler. These same embroidery skills were used to create pockets - linen pouches tied under skirts to hold personal accessories - as well as other fashion items such as aprons, kerchiefs, and sleeve ruffles. Tea was documented as having been enjoyed in America as early as 1650 in the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam. In the eighteenth century, tea drinking was a hallmark of social elegance and a perfect occasion to show off gleaming silver and fine porcelain. A pretty little accessory such as this pot holder would have been a welcome addition to the tea table, evidence of a daughter's accomplishments. The floral pattern, hand drawn in ink, may have been done by an unknown needlework instructor or by an older family member for the girl to embroider and complete.

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