Rare and Important Needlework Sampler, Anna Pope, Spencer, Massachusetts, dated 1796

Worked in silk on linen with the Pope home and area of flame-stitched embroidery. In the original sawtooth inlaid frame.

The Collection of Edgar and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch, a sale at Sotheby's, sale number 3595, January 24, 1974, lot 120.

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art, (pp. 6-7; figs. 7, 7a, 8, 9)

In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Anna Pope (1784-1826) was the fourth child and only daughter of the Reverend Joseph Pope (1745-1859) of Spencer, Massachusetts. Her father was the pastor of the Church of Christ in Spencer from 1773 until 1818. On September 2, 1810, Anna married Roswell Shurtleff (1773-1851) of East Windsor, Connecticut, who became professor of divinity at Dartmouth College. They had five children.

After her death her husband Professor Shurtleff said, "She was truly an helpmeet—one who did me good and not evil all the days of her life."  By her vivacity and cheerfulness she was eminently fitted to comfort him in his hours of suffering and depression.  But it pleased God to take her from him in March, 1826, after having enjoyed with her, during sixteen years, a degree of domestic happiness which rarely falls to the lot of man."  History of Dartmouth College. (Additional information provided by Carol and Stephen Huber).