Deerfield Academy Schoolgirls’ Theorem on Velvet

American School, Deerfield, Massachusetts, ca. 1820.
Unsigned.
Watercolor on velvet.
17 ¼” x 20 ¼”, 21 ¼” x 24 ¼” (with frame).
Over-all in excellent condition, minor toning

Provenance: The Donald F. Moylan, M.D. Collection

Deerfield Academy was unofficially established by a group of 15 residents in 1878. The Academy was intended to provide a higher grade of instruction for local children that would rival the more elite but potentially degenerative Boston institutions, which were thought to be ripe with innumerable temptations of urban life. The school opened to both sexes in 1799.

For a discussion of similar works in this medium from Deerfield Academy, see Suzanne L. Flynt, Ornamental and Useful Accomplishments: Schoolgirl Education and Deerfield Academy, 1800-1830. Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association: Deerfield Academy, Deerfield, Massachusetts, 1988.