Images(2)

Family Register

EmbroidererEmbroidered by Lucy Morgan (American, 1811 - 1890)

Date1822

MediumEmbroidery; silk thread on a plain-woven, undyed linen ground

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width): 17 1/8 x 14 1/2in. (43.5 x 36.8cm)

ClassificationsTextiles

Credit LineGift of Mrs. James L. Goodwin

Object number1968.3.19

DescriptionFamily register worked in blue green, pink and light green silk threads on a plain-woven, undyed, linen ground using cross stitches. The register is rectangular, oriented vertically. It is laid out with the words "FAMILY REGISTER", over seven rows of family details, over two inscriptions at the bottom. The first inscription is a verse, "When youths soft season shall be oer/ And scenes of childhood charm no more/ My riper years with joy shall see/ This proof of youthful industry". The second inscription is "Lucy Morgan wrought this in the 11th year/ of her age Hartford January 10th 1822". Parts of the family details and inscriptions are separated by narrow horizontal meandering borders. The text is surrounded by a wide empty margin then a four-sided narrow, geometric border at the edge.

The register has a 3/16-inch double-turned hem on all four edges. The register is not framed or mounted.

Letters and Numbers: The words "FAMILY REGISTER" are in uppercase script.

Stitches: The register is worked in cross stitch (over two and over one).

Condition: The register has minimal fading. The ground is weakened at visible center horizontal and vertical folds. There are many small stains. The register is not framed or mounted.

NotesHistorical Note: The embroiderer's brother, Junius Spencer Morgan (1813-1890) was a prosperous investment banker and partner in mercantile firms in Hartford, Boston and London. His son John Pierpont Morgan, Sr. (1837-1913) was born in Hartford, Connecticut.

Status

Not on view