Workbag
Dateca. 1820
OriginAmerica, Virginia
MediumSilk
DimensionsOverall: 8 × 9 1/2in. (20.3 × 24.1cm)
Credit LineGift of the Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA
Object number2023-227
DescriptionAn urn shaped work bag that closes with a draw strings made from silk ribbons. Each side of the bag is worked with a different floral sprig. The side seams of the bag are piped in contrasting pink silk.Label TextWorkbags served as practical accessories for storing small items- money, thimbles, knitting needles, gloves, handkerchiefs, glasses, and fans. However, they often served as needlework projects themselves. This example features flowers embroidered in silk thread.ProvenanceDonated in 1958 by Ida Watkins Massie Valentine [1901-1982](Richmond, VA) to the Valentine Museum (Richmond, VA); 2023 transferred to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
