Sampler
EmbroidererEmbroidered by
Tabitha Billing
(American, 1742 - 1824)
Date1762
MediumSilk on linen
DimensionsFrame (height x width): 14 1/2 x 7 1/4in. (36.8 x 18.4cm)
Primary Dimensions (Sampler (height x width)): 13 1/2 x 6 1/4in. (34.3 x 15.9cm)
ClassificationsTextiles
Credit LineThe Newman S. Hungerford Museum Fund
Object number2014.74.0
Label TextThis early sampler is unusual for a number of reasons. First, the woman who stitched it call it her "EXAMPLER", as opposed to the more common "sampler", and it is done in the more traditional 17th century band sampler format. Also unusual, is the number of examples of the same letter she has done, such as the four Ws.
Research tell us she was New London County, an area that has many known needlework pieces. She was good enough to stitch her birth date, and the year she completed the sampler, so we know she was 20 years old when she did this. This seems 'old' for someone stitching a piece like this at that time, compared to other girls that were in their early teens. Perhaps she was a teacher making an example for her students? We may never find out, but it is interesting to wonder where she learned this, and why it is in an older style than other pieces from the same area.
Research tell us she was New London County, an area that has many known needlework pieces. She was good enough to stitch her birth date, and the year she completed the sampler, so we know she was 20 years old when she did this. This seems 'old' for someone stitching a piece like this at that time, compared to other girls that were in their early teens. Perhaps she was a teacher making an example for her students? We may never find out, but it is interesting to wonder where she learned this, and why it is in an older style than other pieces from the same area.
Status
Not on view
