Needlework Picture

Dateca. 1810

MediumSilk and crinkled silk embroidery threads on a fine linen ground of 58 x 63 threads per inch (fiber identification by eye) Wooden frame and glass

DimensionsFramed: OW 12” x OH 14”

Credit LineGift of Beatrix T. Rumford

Object number2020-84

DescriptionThis is a framed, rectangular needlework picture worked in faded shades of pink/red, yellow, green, blue/green, purple, and cream silk embroidery threads on a fine linen ground. The composition centers on a bird perched on a flowering branch. Above is a flowering sprig, two flying birds, and two birds, one sitting on a branch. Below are the letters “W*A*M*L*A”. At the bottom are two baskets with flowers and a third basket that contains a grapevine which grows along the sides and top of the needlework picture.

Stitches: flat, French knot, satin, stem, outline

The sampler is in an old, brown, wood frame sandwiched between two pieces of old glass.
Label TextThe unknown maker of this needlework picture likely completed it as a schoolroom exercise. It may have been the second of two needlework projects--the first being a simple alphabet sampler.
ProvenanceBeatrix T. Rumford purchased this sampler from Herbert Schiffer in Exton, Pennsylvania in 1973. Beatrix donated the sampler to Colonial Williamsburg in 2020.