Winding Up (1836)
William Sidney Mount
William Sidney Mount was the most highly esteemed painter of American daily life before the Civil War. Using meticulous brushwork, he composed Winding Up similar to a theater set, and the figures mimic stage characters of the day. The man represents Yankee Jonathan, a country-bumpkin type. His hat remains on his head even indoors, and his handkerchief sticks out of his pocket. The woman, however, appears in her finest clothing, which Mount drew from earlier costume sketches. The title Winding Up has a double meaning. It refers to the ball of yarn the woman winds from the skein around her suitor's hands and to the stage of their courtship. The artist, however, leaves it to the viewer to guess the final outcome of the relationship.
Maverick Mist 
what an interesting story behind this –
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I thought so too Beth.
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I can only imagine a very positive outcome of this relationship! Facsinating history behind the painter and the era – also I was taken with the picture as recall the numerous times I would hold my hands like this whilst my grandmother wound up the yarn. Precious memories kindled.
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I agree Annika, I think it’s a positive outcome as well. I can remember my grandfather doing something similar with yarn for my grandmother.
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This post reminds me of my childhood memories. Thanks dear, I wish you a great weekend xoxo ❤ ❤
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Sweet memories dear. Hope your weekend is wonderful as well. xoxo ❤ ❤
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Very warm picture.They are weaving their life together. The essence of a relationship.
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I like that “weaving their life together”, thanks.
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