dated 1708 Dutch sampler silk thread on linen with whitework, birds, ships & alphabets

Extraordinary Dutch sampler dated 1708, this treasure features sailing ships, birds, flowers, elaborate alphabets and random motifs, plus a section of textured whitework embroidery borders. Shiny filament silk threads in soft tones accented with a teal blue-green were used on a pale creamy off-white linen. Stitches are mostly cross stitches with some backstitches (in the ship’s flags) and square eyelets in the crown motif. A matching linen thread was used for the whitework borders (upper right side) which utilize chain and lazy-daisy stitches for added texture.

Condition is very good, especially at over 300 years old– the linen is quite heavy and very supple, there is no stitch loss. There are 3 sections of darned repairs to the ground fabric, done, I think, at different times over the years since two are fairly skilled and one less so. There are pencil-like markings that may have been where additional stitching was intended since they appear to be shapes and letters. One flaw that is not immediately noticeable is that this is a fragment of a much larger sampler– some of the alphabet on the left side has been cut off.

The sampler measures 12-1/2″ high by 16″ wide with folded hems on all four sides. It is unframed and will be shipped rolled in acid free tissue in a sturdy tube.

A signature will be required at delivery. Shipping and insurance is included in the price.