c1890s Belgian convent sampler of sewing techniques

Sewing samplers of this style were commonly worked by schoolgirls in European convent schools but it’s unusual to find one this pretty and in such good condition. Although unmarked, it has the same green silk trim as two other 1890s samplers in my collection from the Ursuline Sisters of Tildonk convent school in Belgium. Each section represents a sewing or embroidery lesson. From the top down:

Net embroidery; fabric pleating and narrow fabric strips folded to resemble ric-rac with needle-woven motifs; rows of whitework embroidery stitches and hemstitch borders; net embroidery; padded whitework monogram “A” with ivy surround; lace applique on net; buttonhole embroidered floral motif; tape lace insertion; pleated fabric border; tape lace insertion with loose scalloped bottom edge.

The sampler measures 10-1/4″ wide by 35-1/2″ long, completely edged with green silk and still has the original matching silk bows, one at each corner. The condition is very good with only a few small age spots and discolorations in the white areas; the green silk binding has split along the folded outer edge in a few places but it’s hardly noticeable unless you’re handling the sampler. The backing fabric is a light tan silk in good condition except for a few discolored spots where it appears the sampler was glued to a mat board at some point.

It is unframed and will be shipped rolled loosely with acid free tissue in a box. Shipping will be billed separately for destinations outside the US. A signature will be required for delivery.