Quillwork Sconce
A fragile form of handiwork, quillwork consists of narrow strips of paper rolled into tiny scrolls and glued, one against the other, within a shadow-box frame to form a design. In this case, sconces for candles were attached to the front of each frame, and the glittering mica-covered quillwork magnified and reflected the candlelight.
This sconce and its mate (52.195.20) were possibly made by Ruth Read of Redding, Connecticut. Both sconces originally held silver candle arms made by Knight Leverett; these, however, are now at the Winterthur Museum.
This sconce and its mate (52.195.20) were possibly made by Ruth Read of Redding, Connecticut. Both sconces originally held silver candle arms made by Knight Leverett; these, however, are now at the Winterthur Museum.
Artwork Details
- Title: Quillwork Sconce
- Maker: Possibly Ruth Read
- Date: 1720–40
- Geography: Possibly made in Redding, Connecticut, United States
- Culture: American
- Medium: Paper, shells, wire, glass
- Dimensions: 28 3/4 x 10 7/8 in. (73 x 27.6 cm)
- Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. Screven Lorillard, 1952
- Object Number: 52.195.19
- Curatorial Department: The American Wing
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Ruth Read
1720–40
Multiple artists/makers
1790–95
Thomas Danforth, III
1777–90
Joseph Danforth
1780–88
Thomas Danforth, I
John Danforth
ca. 1762–73
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