A German Sampler dated 1704 and Initialled by “IES”
This intricate and involved sampler features many traditional German sampler motifs dating from the sixteenth century including a large parrot, peacock and lamb of God, as well as a depiction of the crucifixion flanked by two female figures, probably Mother Mary and Mary Magdalen. There are many elaborate floral and geometric pattern bands, three alphabets and a set of numerals in unusual styles. In the upper left corner is the shadow of a motif and attribution that was stitched with black silk and has almost entirely faded on the front but is still visible on the back: IES 1704. The initials and date are repeated below the first alphabet, so it was signed and dated in at least two separate places. Worked with silk and metallic threads on fine linen, the stitches used are primarily cross with some double running and back stitch embellishments in shades of red, green, blue, gold, white, brown and silver metal. The sampler has been conservation mounted over linen and acid free board with acid free spacers and ultraviolet filtering glass. The sampler itself measures 11-1/2″ x 28″, and with the frame 15-1/2″ x 32″. It is somewhat faded but the overall condition is very good.
