1820s Ann Brown small schoolgirl Pennsylvania sampler

19th century American schoolgirl sampler by Ann Brown in 1820s Pennsylvania, worked with twisted silk thread on homespun linen fabric. A classic basket motif takes center stage just below “Ann Brown Work” across the top. Scattered pine trees, crowns, hearts and flowering plants fill the remainder of the sampler. A geometric border across the top is almost hidden by the frame. All colors are twisted silk thread on golden tan linen. The handsome frame is ornately carved and detailed, nearly black and has a glossy finish. It’s an unusual choice for such a simple, childish piece of needlework.

Equally special are the items that accompanied this sampler. Included are a sheet of paper with several small, period photographs purported to be Anna, her brother George and other family members, George’s penmanship workbook, a handwritten poem bearing the initials A.B. and a newspaper clipping.

Condition appears generally very good, although the sampler has not been examined out of the frame. There is no stitch loss or worn fabric areas, although there are two loose threads in the ecru basket motif at the lower right. The lighter colors of silk thread appear to have faded. The frame has some small rubbed areas and very small chips but it is sturdy and ready to hang. The black paper backing is torn and should be replaced. A typed note which read “Miniature 1820s Pennsylvania sampler by Ann Brown” is taped on the back along with a John Wanamaker Philadelphia framer’s label with an order number written faintly in pencil.

The visible portion of the sampler is 6-3/8″ wide by 7-3/8″, with the overall measurement is 11-1/4″ wide by 12-1/4″ high.  A signature will be required at delivery.  Shipping within the USA is included in the price, and will be billed separately for overseas customers.