1929 sampler book of perforated paper pages with motifs and borders

This very unusual “sampler” was most likely made by a student– it’s a “book” with pages made of stitched perforated paper, mounted into a hard cover. The pages are attached to both covers, and sewn together at the edges so they unfold like an accordion at the middle. 16 pages, each different and measuring about 5-1/2″ wide by 8-3/4″ high. the book is 6″ by 9-1/2″ and 1-3/8″ thick. The perforated paper is very thick and a light pinkish-apricot shade, with about 8 stitches per inch.

I think this was a student project, although I’ve seen a few similar pieces labeled as teacher’s samples. The first page reads “Souvenir de mes 6 ans 28-29” which translates as “Remembrance of my 6th year 1928-29.” The stitches are worked with red and dark brown perle cotton with cross stitches dominating although there are occasional Smyrna Crosses and Eyelets. The edges of the perforated paper are simply trimmed, and joining edges were whipstitched together. Most of the patterns are borders but there are several pages of unusual household items worked in long backstitch.

The overall condition is very good. There are a couple very small,  minor spots and smudges, but the only stitch loss appears to be a few missing along two whipstsitched edges. The paper is not at all brittle and thread colors are unfaded. The book was handmade from chipboard and bookbinding tape with marbled paper lining the inside covers.

SOLD