A wonderful sampler, possibly stitched in the north of England (see Scottish influences), with silk and fine wool on tammy cloth, using cross and counted satin stitches. It is marked “Elizabeth Cheetham work this in the 11 year of her age.” This might be one Elizabeth Cheetham who was born in 1813 to James and Martha Cheetham in Halifax, Yorkshire, England. If so, she married Sampson Craven in 1833 at age 19. His occupation is listed as “Wool Sorter” and they had eight children. She passed at age 65 in 1879. An alphabet and a pious verse are stitched above a horizontal geometric pattern band above a scenic register with trees, birds, baskets of flowers and deer—with mauve spots! This is followed by another verse, and patterns resembling bargello but are actually cross stitched. A bright red border of strawberries surrounds all four sides. The sampler has been professionally conserved, in possibly its original birdseye maple frame. Very good color and condition. Sight: 16″ x 12-1/2″, with frame 21″ x 17-1/2″.

Also available as a kit so you can make it yourself – Elizabeth Cheetham Sampler