Rare Needlework Sampler, Sarah Waterman, Providence, Rhode Island, dated 1785

Worked in silk and metalic threads on linen; inscribed Sarah Waterman born February 21 1775 made this July 21 in Providence 1785.

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the collection of Betty Ring (p. 25, fig. 39); Let Virtue Be a Guide to Thee: Needlework in the Education of Rhode Island Women, 1730-1830 (fig. 31)

Retains its original frame; some areas which are unfilled in tree trunks, aphabet band, and extreme borders.
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.

Sally's sampler, closely related to Newport work, is one of the earliest pieces attributed to Mary Balch's school in Providence. It includes the same maxim Mary stitched on her childhood sampler of 1773:

Cato doth say to Old and to Young
The first step to Virtue is bridle the Tong^Ue

Sarah Waterman (1775-1852) was the daughter of Rufus Waterman(1746-1829) and Hannah Sprague (c. 1752-1833) of Providence. She married John Thompson on April 1, 1798; they had two daughters. Sarah's sister Eliza Waterman (1777-1870) worked a remarkably accurate view of the Providence State House in 1788(see ANTIQUES, September 1983, p. 504; also, Sotheby's Important Americana, Sale 5551, January 31, 1987, Lot 1050).