The mermaid is most widely seen in Germanic decorative arts. Willson's depiction might indicate that she was aware of Germanic decorative traditions, but her heritage is more likely English. Her Maremaid resembles the subject of an 18th-century trade sign and trade card from London. Brandishing a weapon in each hand, rather than a mirror and comb, as...

muted study of the crockery, foodstuffs and supplies that one might find in such a country store. In fact, tradition holds that the interior is the Ainsworth store in Williamstown, Vermont, and all the characters were local friends of the artist.