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2014-31, Sampler
Sampler by Mary Ann Burk
2014-31, Sampler

Sampler by Mary Ann Burk

Dateca. 1827
Maker Mary Ann Burk (ca. 1820 - 1869)
OriginAmerica, Virginia, Richmond
MediumSilk embroidery threads on a linen ground of 28 weft threads by 26 warp threads per inch (fiber identification by eye)
DimensionsOH: 18 1/2" x OW: 17 1/2"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2014-31
DescriptionThis is an almost square needlework sampler worked in faded shades of green, cream, and tan. The sampler has selvages at sides and a 1 /8” hem at top and bottom. The sampler consists of two sets of alphabets (one block, one script), a verse flanked by evergreen trees, a floral spay, and signature and place name, all enclosed in a realistically worked border of vines, leaves, and flower buds. The verse reads: "My child know thou the Lord/ Thy father's God obey/ Seek his protecting care by night/ His guardian hand by day." To the right of the large floral spray at the bottom of the sampler is the signature line "Mary Ann Burk/ in her ninth year." To the right of the floral spray is "Richmond Virginia."

Stitches: cross and straight

Label TextMary Ann Burk created her fairly sophisticated alphabet sampler at the young age of eight. In addition to two sets of alphabets, her signature line, and place name of "Richmond," Mary included a pious verse, which was typical of sampler makers in the early years of the nineteenth century. Apparently both Mary and her mother, Ann H., were devout needlewomen. In 1857, Ann contributed a quilt block inscribed with her name and pious sayings for an album quilt presented to The Reverend Edward Jefferson Willis by members of the Leigh Street Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia.
Inscribed"My child know thou the Lord/ Thy father's God obey/ Seek his protecting care by night/ His guardian hand by day."

Written in pencil on early paper backing:
"Mary Ann Burk / Born Oct. 26 1819 / Died May 24 1869 / Married June 1843 / James Lawrence Apperson / Born Sept 3 1815."

ProvenanceThe sampler descended through the family per auction catalog description.

History of samplermaker:
The maker's marriage to James Apperson is listed IN VIRGINIA MARRIAGES as taking place June 2, 1843 in Henrico, Virginia. They are also listed in the 1850 United States Federal Census lving with four children under the age of seven and Mary's mother, Ann H. Burke. Both Mary and James are buried in Hollywood Cemetery.