c1830 Mexican sampler with whitework embroidery flamestitch spangles 28″ by 30″

This Mexican sampler dates from around 1830 and features an exceptional variety of patterns and embroidery techniques. It’s obviously the work of a skilled embroiderer and features Bargello or flame stitch patterns, filet, “Aztec” stitch (an openwork technique created with blocks of slanted satin stitches) plus both colorful and whitework embroidered borders, even an accent of metal spangles and beads. The silk thread is very shiny filament floss. The linen is a warm cream color (some photos appear slightly greyish due to the lighting).

The cross stitched area feature a classic stag motif and the pelican piercing its breast to feed its young, along with small figures, animals, pomegranates and floral patterns. There is lettering beneath that section which appears to be Cuandose un gusto U(V?)na los manaja, with all caps letters beneath “DI MANODEMA Y ADE JESUS.”

The condition is very good; there is very little color loss to the silks and the stitches are are skillfully worked. The only loss I see is some rows of metal spangles and beads in one flame stitch square. The linen fabric is sturdy and supple, free of holes with neatly hemmed edges along two sides and the original fabric selvedge on the other two. Scattered light stains and discolorations but no holes or losses other than the spangles.

The sampler measures 28″  by 29-1/2″ and could be displayed either vertically or horizontally; as is often the case with Mexican samplers, the two halves are worked in opposite directions, so half the sampler will appear upside down. It is unframed and will be shipped rolled inside an acid free sleeve. A signature will be required at delivery.