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These mitts are reportedly the Christening mitts worn by Major John Russell (1767-1839) of Deerfield, Massachusetts. Made out of linen, each mitt is decorated with blue silk embroidery. The three vertical lines of embroidery on the outside of the mitts resembles the stitching used to fit adult leather gloves. Their purpose on these mitts is purely decorative. This kind of 18th century embroidery, blue on white, would be the inspiration for the Arts and Crafts revival group Deerfield Society of Blue and White Needlework.

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