Washington Winter Show 2016

44 This page is sponsored by Hilary Gripekoven in honor of the 125th Anniversary of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America apparently close walls of wood, made up of the bodies of the trees…stretching as seemed to an immeasurable distance.” 7 John Mason’s Recollections provides fascinating insight into the domestic life (Figures 7–13) of Gunston Hall plantation and a window to the personal lives of the Mason family. Written when John was in his mid-sixties, the narrative describes his childhood and those of his eight brothers and sisters, all living together “in great harmony.” It relates the untimely death of his mother at age thirty-nine and his father’s subsequent remarriage, as well as the family’s religious and social life with neighbors. It also includes observations of Mason’s later political and business dealings. Figure 7: Montieth, made by Isaac Dighton, London, 1700. Treasured by the family for generations, this bowl both showcased the Masons’ wealth and served the functions of chilling and rinsing wineglasses, holding water for christening infants, and possibly for containing punch. Figure 8: Gunston Hall, family parlor. Called the “Little Parlor” by Mason family members, this room is where George Mason conducted much of the business of the plantation, studied, and attended to his correspondence. Its restrained color scheme and simple paneling make clear that it was mainly for family use. text conttinues on page 48