An English sampler from the collection of The
Shelburne Museum
This sampler is an excellent example of the transition that occurred in
samplermaking between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
Retaining the long, narrow band format, the
emphasis is more on lettering and verses than a pattern record or compendium
of elaborate and varied stitches and techniques. A limited number of
stitches are used to execute the sampler: cross, eyelet, and counted thread
satin. The vivid color was reproduced from the virtually unfaded back side
of the sampler. The verses are:
Christs Arms do still stand open to
receive
All weary prodigals that sin do leave
For them he left his Father's blest Abode
Made son of Man to make Man son of God
To cure their wounds he life's elixir bled
And dy'd a death to raise them from the
Dead
Fragrant the rose is but it fades in time
The violet sweet but quickly past the prime
While lilies hang their Heads and soon decay
And whiter snow in minutes melts away
Such and so with'ring are our early joys
Which Time or sickness speedily destroy
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