Images(2)

Embroidered Pocketbook

Period1773

MediumSilk, buckram, gold and silver thread, plied silk thread, and cotton velvet

Dimensions4 × 7.25 × 0.63 in. (10.2 × 18.4 × 1.6 cm)

InscribedEmbroidered on the inside front panel is the name and date "James Hamilton / 1773."

ClassificationsNeedlework

Credit LineGift of Aimee Colt Toler, 1943

Object number1829

DescriptionA pocketbook of fine black silk over a buckram (stiffened linen) lining, bound with bright pink silk ribbon. The pocketbook is constructed as a single fold case, with divided double compartments on the front and back panels. Both interior and exterior are elaborately embroidered in delicate floral and foliate motifs. On the front panel, a pair of exotic birds perch along the rim of a stylized urn, while a yellow butterfly lights atop a blue floral blossom above. On the back panel, a pair of exotic birds resembling parrots nestle within al elaborate floral spray curving out of a cone-shaped container. The two inner panels feature a delicate floral and strawberry spray on one side. The other panel includes a shaped medallion panel forming a frame for the pocketbook's embroidered inscription "James Hamilton / 1773." All embroidery is done in fine plied silk threads in shades of dark green, jade green, pale green, rich maroon, salmon, rose, pale pink, peach, lemon yellow, and deep sky blue. In addition, gold and silver threads are used throughout. Stitches include satin, stem, and several couching variations. All silver and gold thread work is couched. Two divider sections contain gusseted side panels in pale blue silk bound with bright pink silk ribbons. Two lengths of black cotton velvet ribbons have been added and crudely stitched in place to the center of each panel edge.
Curatorial RemarksThe extraordinary level of needlework skill exhibited in this pocketbook suggests that it was professionally done, perhaps as a commission for owner James Hamilton in 1773. The fine silk thread, strands of expensive gold and silver, and the high quality of the finishing meant that this case was a very costly little accessory, a visual and colorful display of wealth and prestige. The gold and silver threads, now tarnished and frayed, would originally have glittered in the light. Pocketbooks were carried by both men and women and were used for correspondence, receipts, paper currency, and other personal papers.NotesGenealogical research on the donor has so far not identified who James Hamilton might have been.

Collections