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Quillwork sconce

Quillwork sconce

1737
Object Placeprobably Boston, Massachusetts
Medium/TechniquePine, gilded and colored paper, wax, shells, fabric, wire, glass
DimensionsOverall: 56.5 x 47.9 cm (22 1/4 x 18 7/8 in.)
Credit LineH. E. Bolles Fund
Accession number58.970
On View
On view
ClassificationsMixed media
Collections
Description
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.
ProvenanceBears Emerson coat of arms and descended in the Emerson family; purchased in October 1958 from C.C. Emerson, 52 Bowdoin Street, Portland, Maine.