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Quillwork sconce
1737
Object Place: probably Boston, Massachusetts
Medium/Technique
Pine, gilded and colored paper, wax, shells, fabric, wire, glass
Dimensions
Overall: 56.5 x 47.9 cm (22 1/4 x 18 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
H. E. Bolles Fund
Accession Number58.970
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsMixed media
The shape, floral ornamentation, and coat of arms of this quillwork are similar to those of contemporary tombstones. The sconce originally was fitted with arms for candles that would have illuminated the elaborate picture within. The central tablet depicts Pan and a goat, with the arms of the Emerson family above.
DescriptionFramed quill-work. Rectangular painted pine frame with shaped top. Horizontal gilded paper box with glazed print in center. Date over Emerson arms and crest above box, vase below. Wax fruits (much broken and loose) pendant at sides, dressed wax doll in one corner, two wax lambs in other. Mica flowers.
ProvenanceBears Emerson coat of arms and descended in the Emerson family; purchased in October 1958 from C.C. Emerson, 52 Bowdoin Street, Portland, Maine.