Needle Pictures

In America needle pictures were especially popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Unlike other needlework, these pictures were regarded as "art," largely because they generally copied fine art prints or engravings of old masters (paintings by men!). It is only when embroidery attempted to do something else--that is imitate painting, that it gained any status. Artists stitched scenic views, still lifes, patriotic themes, and even mythical and Biblical subject matter.
Eliza Greening, Abraham and Isaac, n.d.
		Mary C. West and Lucy H. West The Artist and Cupid, n.d.
		Mary Green Liberty, 1804 23 1/4" x 16 7/8"
		Anonymous Woman with Sheep, n.d.
		Eunice Bourne? The Fishing Lady, c. 1750
	Anonymous Scene in a Garden, n.d.
The mourning theme was also popular in needle pictures. Usually the tomb of the loved one is depicted along with symbolic weeping willows. Classical trappings, like urns and female mourners in diaphanous Empire style gowns, illustrate the pervasive Neoclassical affectation found so often in the decorative arts of the early 19th century.
	Nancy Dunham Sacred to the Memory of Mrs. Lois Dunham needlework and paint, 1804
		Hannah Clapp Sacred to the Memory of Abner Clapp needlework and paint, 1809 22" x 20 1/4"

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