Sampler by Mary Best

Date1693 (dated) (Cut apart & framed in 18th c.)

Artist/Maker Mary Best

MediumSilk embroidery threads with padded details in wool and wood on a linen ground of 52 x 54 threads per inch (fiber identification by eye)

DimensionsOriginal dimensions: OW: 8 1/2" X OH: 34"; Dimensions as framed: OW: 10 5/8" X OH: 19 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1955-45

DescriptionThis is framed long, narrow needlework band sampler with geometric and floral bands, Tudor roses, and human and animal figures in raised work. The sampler was cut apart and framed as a pair of pictures ca. 1800. 1955-45 has bands with human figures in 1690s costume, with larger panel featuring a scene of Adam and Eve flanking a tree, with serpent, lion and unicorn as part of the scene. 1955-46 has a Tudor rose in detached needle lace, and bands of flowers and acorns. Some of the motifs, including figures, flowers, lion, unicorn, and Tree of Life, are made of raised work.

Inscription and signature read, ""John Best * My/Father*Deare/Paid*For*This/That*I*Did*hear *Mary/ Best* September* The 16 Day 1693"

Stitches: bullion knots, buttonhole, chain, cross, detached buttonhole, detached needle lace and other needle lace, double running, eyelet, French knots, foursided, long-arm cross, marking cross, running and satin
Label TextThis seventeenth-century band sampler, made by Mary Best in 1693, features three-dimensional motifs. These motifs, made of raised work and detached needle lace, include a man and woman in 1690s dress, Adam and Eve surrounding the Tree of Life and flanked by a unicorn and lion, and a Tudor rose. At some point circa 1800, this sampler was split into two pieces. This is probably the bottom piece, which features a courting couple surrounded by flowers, Adam and Eve at the Tree of Life flanked by a unicorn and lion, decorative bands, and an inscription that reads, "John Best My Father Deare Paid for This That I Did Hear Mary Best September the 16 Day 1693."
Inscribed"John Best * My/Father*Deare/Paid*For*This/That*I*Did*hear *Mary/ Best* September* The 16 Day 1693"
MarkingsNone
ProvenanceOnce a single sampler later cut apart and framed.

Exhibition(s)