Fine and Rare Embroidered and Painted Silk Picture, Sally Strobridge, Pierce Academy, Middleborough, Massachusetts, dated 1802

Delicately worked in silk, gold metallic thread on a painted silk ground; inscribed on the glass.

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art (p. 68, fig. 111)

Some minor stain, discoloration, and fading; tiny hole in lower right corner; retains original giltwood and gesso frame and eglomise mat.
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.

Peirce Academy was established as a school for boys in 1808 and admitted girls by 1810, but there is no record of the first preceptress. Sally Strobridge (1795-1875) was probably a day scholar at the academy. She was the daughter of William Strobridge (c. 1756-1843)and Hannah Crane of Middleborough (1760-1826), and she became the wife of Gershom Crane. (Additional information provided by Carol and Stephen Huber).