c1860 Berlin Work needlepoint pattern samples with zippered pouch

A collection of mid-19th century “Berlin Work” stitch and pattern samples in a handmade monogrammed zippered pouch. While a few samples are stitched on traditional double-mesh Penelope canvas, most are on Congress Cloth (a fine needlepoint canvas made in varying thread counts) worked in Tent and Cross stitches with wool yarn. Two examples include “canvas lace” stitched with a thin black silk thread.

17 pieces of canvas, many with multiple patterns on each. The largest measures 6-1/4″ by 9-1/2″ and the smallest ones around 3″ by 4″.

Condition is very good. 3 or 4 small areas of stitch loss to the wool but the colors are still bright, there are a few small stains mostly along the edges and one piece has small holes in the canvas ground. The 8″ by 12″ pouch is completely hand-sewn.

Collections like this are hard to find but often survived in good condition because they were stored away from light, in a drawer.