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Sampler 1971-1486
Sampler by Unknown Maker
Sampler 1971-1486

Sampler by Unknown Maker

Date1685
OriginEurope, Germany
MediumSilk embroidery threads on a linen ground of 60 x 52 threads per inch (fiber identification by textile lab)
DimensionsOW: 12" x OH: 14 1/4"
Credit LineGift of an Anonymous Donor
Object number1971-1486
DescriptionThis sampler is made of polychrome silk threads on an off-white linen ground. At the top there is an upper case and a lower case alphabet, along with the date 1685. The rest of the sampler features a central floral wreath medallion with a bird sat in a house inside of the medallion. On three sides, flowers, two in pots, grow from the edges of the sampler and face the medallion. On the bottom side there is a church and/or castle, along with symbols of the Passion. Above the crucifix that is included in the symbols of the Passion is a banner that reads, "INRI." INRI represents a Latin inscription that translates to "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews." The initialization often accompanies depictions of the Passion or just the crucifix. The sampler is edged with blanket stitch in red silk.

Stitches: blanket stitch, cross over three
Label TextThis sampler, made in 1685, has several features that make it unique to German samplers from the latter half of the seventeenth century. Like contemporaneous German samplers, this work has two alphabets (one upper case and one lower case) along its top edge, an edging of red silk threads embroidered in blanket stitch, floral motifs that face toward a central floral medallion, and symbols of the Passion.
InscribedTwo alphabets
Markings"INRI"; "1685"
ProvenanceEx coll: Tomlinson