Elizabeth Masterton 1838

Description

Typical of so many Scottish samplers, Elizabeth Masterton’s features an abundance of initials (likely familial), rows of evergreen trees, peacocks with seven tail feathers, and the now famous mansion house fronted by a pillared fence and gates enclosing sheep. Apart from the clues offered by the motifs, nothing else could be found about the original maker, Masterton being a fairly common surname. The sampler is surrounded by a four sided berry border enclosing horizontal bands of highly decorative and elaborate potted flowers. The attribution and the family initials are executed in four sided stitch. The substantial wall in front of the mansion is executed in counted satin stitch. Other than that, the entire piece is done in cross stitch over two threads of linen. On 40 count linen the sampler will most closely approximate the size of the original at 15″ x 22″, It is recommended for any level of skill.

View the original antique sampler here