Sampler by Unknown Maker

Date1800-1850

MediumCotton yarn with silk backing and ribbon; unidentified sewing thread (fiber identification by eye)

DimensionsOW 2 3/4" x OL 72" (without ties), 88 1/2" (with ties)

Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors

Object number1971-1659,1

DescriptionThis is a white, cotton knitting sampler with fifty-five lace and damask patterns. Each pattern is separated by two rows of reverse stockinette. The sampler is backed with two pieces of pink silk and bound with green silk ribbons. A single length of green silk ribbon is doubled over and stitched to one of the short ends to form a pair of ties. There are approximately twenty stitches per inch. The words "55 Patterns", "German", and "55" are written on the back in pencil.
Label TextThis sampler shows fifty-five lace and damask knitting patterns. By the early nineteenth century, the growing use of knitting machines led to the increased popularity of fancy and open-work patterns. These patterns could not be replicated by machine and clearly demonstrated the skill of the knitter.
Markings"55 Patterns", "German", "55"
ProvenanceThe last recorded owners of this piece were Mr. and Mrs. Roy Everett Tomlinson. The sampler was earlier in the collection of Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen.