Grace Kemish, Dec the 20, circa 1810-20
This English sampler features a four sided honeysuckle border with one row of alphabet across the top, followed by a traditional verse:
Jesus Permit thy Gracious Name to stand
As the first Effort of an Infant Hand
And while her fingers on the Canvas move
Engage her tender thoughts to seek thy love
With thy dear Children let her have a part
And write thy Name thyself upon her Heart
Below the verse is an arcaded floral band, followed by two scenic registers; the first centered by a stag and flanked by potted flowers, peacocks, butterflies and small birds. The second scene illustrates a shepherd and shepherdess with their dog and sheep, sitting on a tree trunk. To their right is a sailing ship with finely stitched rigging, flying a flag. Grace has signed her work at the bottom but has picked out the date. The sampler itself measures 13″ x 18″, 16″ x 21″ to the outer edges of the Hogarth style frame which is very likely original. Stitches used are cross, back, straight, satin (both counted and freehand). The color is very good and the condition overall is very good with some scattered holes around the outer border. The sampler has not yet been conserved. The price will increase when/if that is done.