1830s sampler with borders and textured stitches

This unusual American circa 1830s sampler features solidly stitched bands of pattern and a variety of stitches including Rice (Crossed Corners), pulled square Eyelets, pulled Backstitches and Chain stitches in addition to the typical cross stitches. The threads are an interesting mix of wool, silk and what appears to be a fine linen thread.

The “blank” band near the top actually has stitching but I can’t make it out– I suspect it is the first part of the alphabet that continues in brown below, but there may be a date and name as well. The geometric band below the wave border is solid Rice stitches, the zig-zag below that is Chain stitches, and the carnation border has a solidly worked pale blue cross stitch background.The final band at the bottom has rows of tightly pulled Backstitches, pulled Eyelets, rows of pulled 4-sided stitch and variations of a Herringbone-type stitch. I can’t emphasize how atypical it is to find this much texture and stitch variety in an otherwise fairly traditional sampler. The lower case alphabet row features two “S” letters including the old long form style that resembles an “f”.

The condition is generally good with a few small holes and some stitch loss in the blue alphabet row. Unfortunately at some point in time the sampler was trimmed close to the stitched border all around, probably to fit into a frame.

The sampler measures 11″ wide by 15-3/4″ high. It is unframed and will be shipped rolled in acid-free paper in a tube.  A signature will be required at delivery.  Shipping within the USA is included in the price, and will be billed separately for overseas customers.

SOLD