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Sampler 1971-1754,2
Sampler by Unknown Maker
Sampler 1971-1754,2

Sampler by Unknown Maker

Dateca. 1820
OriginEurope, Italy
MediumSilk ribbon, silk embroidery threads on a linen ground of 50 x 50 threads per inch (fabric identification by textile lab)
DimensionsOH: 5" x OW: 9"
Credit LineAnonymous gift.
Object number1971-1754,2
DescriptionThis is a short, wide sampler. The top half of the sampler contains a script alphabet embroidered in beige silk using cross stitch. The first line consists of "A" through "O," and the second line has "P" through Z." In the corner is what looks to be a skull and cross bones or a set of cross keys next to a crown with arrows or keys. The top half is separated from the bottom half by a vine with pink leaves.
The bottom half contains several stylized motifs, including a vase, a lantern, a glass, a rooster, a pump, a ladder, and a key, all symbols of the Crucifixion. The sampler is bordered by pink flowers on leafy stems. Beige, yellow, black and green silk threads were used to embroider the various motifs. The sampler is edged with a pink silk ribbon.

Stitches: cross
Label TextThis sampler, with its unusual short, wide shape, was made in Italy. The maker included a variety of symbols representing the Crucifixion, including a ladder, rooster, and keys. The sampler maker likely stitched her sampler in the first two decades of the 19th century, as her sampler resembles other Italian samplers that are dated.
InscribedNone
MarkingsNone