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1994-45, Sampler
Sampler by Martha B. Horn
1994-45, Sampler

Sampler by Martha B. Horn

Dateca. 1826
Artist/Maker Martha B. Horn
OriginAmerica, New Hampshire, Gilmanton
MediumSilk embroidery threads on a linen ground of 24 x 24 threads per inch (fiber identification by Textile Lab)
DimensionsActual: OH 16 1/2" x OW 21 1/2"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1994-45
DescriptionThis is a rectangular needlework sampler worked in faded shades of blue, green, brown, black, ivory, tan, and rust silk embroidery threads on a natural color linen ground. The sampler is hemmed on four sides in a 1/4" hem using hem stitch. The top two thirds of the sampler consist of:
"A-Q" upper case script, diamond motif, in cross stitch
Decorative band of lozenges in cross and satin stitches
"R-Z" upper case script, "&" "X" "1-9" in cross stitches
Decorative undulating band in cross stitch
"A-I" "K-S" upper case block in satin stitch
Decorative band in cross stitch
"T-X" "Z" upper case block, "&" and motif in satin stitch, "A-F" upper case block in eyelet
Band of satin stitch
"G-U" upper case block in eyelet stitch
Band of cross stitch
"A-Z" upper case block and wave motif in cross stitch
Sawtooth band in satin stitch
The bottom third of sampler consists of the following in an area outlined in a sawtooth border of satin stitch: "a-z" lower case block, "&" and bar of cross stitch (over one)/ band of double row of cross stitch/ and the signature line: "Martha B Horn born March 29th 1813 aged 13 years."
Below signature line are symmetrically placed undulating hillocks each with a bird and flowering vines. Centered between the two hillocks is a woven basket of flowers with reversed S-side handles. The major motifs are outlined in black silk thread.

Stitches: chain, cross, eyelet, hem, outline, and satin
Label TextAlthough Martha did not stitch the characteristic green leafy plume so common on samplers from the Canterbury region, her sampler does include certain features associated with this group: undulating hillocks, birds, centered woven basket with reverse S-side handles, and major motifs outlined in black silk thread. This large group of samplers, made between 1786 and 1833, has been instrumental in providing evidence that some women in Canterbury made a career of teaching.
ProvenanceA paper label on back of modern frame of sampler reads: "Martha B. Horn/ Born mar. 29, 1813/ Watertown, Mass./ Daughter of William/Martha Horn/ who were married Aug. 20, 1808/ Ref: N. E. Histo. Geneol. Soc."