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Sampler 1971-1489
Sampler, Darning, by Unknown Maker
Sampler 1971-1489

Sampler, Darning, by Unknown Maker

Dateca. 1850
OriginEurope, Netherlands
MediumSilk embroidery threads on a cotton ground of 46 x 48 threads per inch (fiber identification by textile lab)
DimensionsOH: 11 1/2" x OW: 11 1/2"
Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors
Object number1971-1489
DescriptionThis is a square darning sampler consisting of white and red silk threads on an unbleached cotton ground. In the sampler's center is the mark "EV," surrounded by four darned rectangles in different patterns. Along the sampler's edges are twelve darning crosses in red and white (except for the three to the left of "EV," which are all white), stitched in plain weave, twill, and broken twill. There are four corner angles, all in white. All four sides are hemmed.

Stitches: darning stitches (broken twill, plain weave, and twill), satin stitch
Label TextThis is a square darning sampler made by a skilled needleworker in the Netherlands sometime in the nineteenth century. It is inscribed with "EV," likely the initials of the sampler's maker. Darning samplers allowed needleworkers to practice and perfect their mending stitches, so they would know how to beautifully mend rips or tears in clothing, accessories, and household textiles.
InscribedNone
Markings"EV"
ProvenanceEx coll: Tomlinson, Ginsburg and Levy, Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen, Mrs. Raymond Bell. Written on board- "Bought from Mrs. Raymond Bell, Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen, 270 Park Avenue, NYC/DWC 494-PT, Ginsburg and Levy, Aug. 6, '54, Mrs. Cohen's estate/Dutch."