The composition of Maria E. Walter's large mourning embroidery is probably based upon a Washington memorial print, but a more immediate source might be found in some of the embroidered memorials worked at the Folwell School in Philadelphia. Several similar needlework pictures exist that show the influence of designs by Philadelphia artist Samuel Folwell, though they are not painted by him. These embroideries may have originated in one of the many schools competing with the Folwell school in the Philadelphia area. However, the name "Baltimore" written on the canvas lining of this needlework and newspaper clippings from Baltimore papers found on the back of the frame may indicate a different origin. Although the year 1841 written on the monument depicted in this embroidery does not represent the date the embroidery was completed, such a late date is consistent with the extensive use of chenille threads, so named for their furry appearance--chenille being French for caterpillar.