Transitional Sampler circa 1711

Description

The original sampler from which this kit was reproduced, from the collection of THE SCARLET LETTER, is undated, but very similar to two others that have been in our collection over the years. Both of these samplers have had similar horizontal pattern bands, a panel of mixed bargello work, they are brilliantly colored, employ a wide variety of stitches, and are alike in proportions (vertical, but less band-shaped, tending toward the square). These other examples are dated 1711 and 1712, but tend to be more alphabetical and verse oriented; whereas this example shows stronger carryovers in design from the seventeenth century. The sampler is decidedly intense, in color as well as stitch coverage. Stitches used are cross, Montenegrin cross, rice, Florentine, queen, counted satin, double running, French knot, bullion, stem filling, and herringbone.