This is the newest exhibition catalogue from Witney Antiques, in which groups of samplers have been linked together. Samplers worked under the tutelage of certain teachers are illustrated, and over the course of time new examples have been found, as in the case of Frances Owen and Dorcas Haynes (Fitzwilliam Museum), Catherine Winbush and Elizabeth Harris (Lady Lever Art Gallery), the "Angel and Tree" band samplers and two examples from Miss Gregson's Seminary. Also included in the exhibition are samplers from named schools and teachers not previously researched. A variety of distinctive samplers have emerged from this study, many the products of formal instruction from previously unknown schools or as additions to established groups. Samplers still exist in considerable numbers, reflecting the talents of these innumerable teachers and their pupils over a span of four hundred years; however many of the often anonymous teachers are long forgotten, their talents expressed through the work of their students. While many samplers were worked in schools, others were stitched in the home under the guidance of a relative or governess. Some were the products of one sole instructress, others are the results of one teacher's efforts being expanded or copied by a student and passed to the next generation, thus sometimes very closely related designs can be seen stretching over a broad period of time.
Softbound, $45.00