Sampler by Joadier Dinsdell

Date1799

Artist/Maker Joadier Dinsdell

MediumSilk embroidery threads on a linen ground of 26 x 24 threads per inch (fiber identification by textile lab)

DimensionsOW: 7 3/8" x OH: 17 3/8"

Credit LineBequest of Grace Hartshorn Westerfield

Object number1974-686

DescriptionThis is a rectangular alphabet and verse sampler worked in silk threads on a linen ground. Many of the threads are very faded. The top of the sampler features two bands of bands, the first in white and the second in blue. This is followed by a band that features uppercase letters "A" through "L." The next line reads "M" through "W." The next band consists of letters "X," "Y," "Z," and an ampersand. On the right side of the band are two stylized plants with two flowers or fruits each. The next band features lowercase letters "a" through "p." The next line has letters "q" through "z," along with two small trees. The following band features numerals "1" through "10," along with another stylized plant.

Below this is the sampler's inscription, which reads, "What If My Sun Should/Set Att Noon If Death/Should Call To Day Canst/Thou My Soul Go Of So/Soon Hast Thou No Scores/To Pay." On the right side of this inscription are stylized plants and small trees. Below this inscription is the maker's signature, which reads, ""Joadier Dinsdell Born/Novemder [sic]The 18 AD/1787 In the 12 Year/Of My Age 1799." This signature is accompanied by two more stylized plants.

The bottom of the sampler features a landscape scene, with three hills and a tree on each one. The scene also includes birds and clouds.

Stitches: cross, satin
Label TextThe maker of this alphabet and verse sampler had a truly unique name: Joadier Dinsdell. Even though she lists her exact birth date, November 18th, 1787, her unusual name makes it difficult to determine who she was, where she was from, and where she stitched her sampler.
Inscribed"What If My Sun Should/Set Att Noon If Death/Should Call To Day Canst/Thou My Soul Go Of So/Soon Hast Thou No Scores/To Pay"
MarkingsNone
ProvenanceFrom the estate of Grace Hartshorn Westerfield of Camden, Maine; no further provenance is known.