This is one of a few small punch paper embroideries I dug out of a box in New Hampshire this week, and from what I’ve seen it is quite an unusual one, which I especially love for its stoicism and the manner in which it so matter of factly references a history that has since been dispelled. Pilgrim Jon Carved  supposedly carried the chair to Plymouth on the Mayflower ship in 1620, but historians now believe it is highly unlikely, given the risky trip and limited space, that any traveler would bother to carry a chair aboard the ship. In addition, after an analysis of the wood from this first chair, it was shown to be made of wood only found in America.  But here stands this bookmark, late 19th/early 20th c, exemplifying our love of legends and desire for tangible objects that embody them, and specifically our historically romantic notions about the lives of the pilgrims.

7 1/2” x 3” and in good condition, with white satin ribbon sewn to the backside, which shows some toning.