Sampler
EmbroidererEmbroidered by
Sabra F. Giddings
(American, born about 1827)
Date1838
MediumEmbroidery; silk thread on a plain-woven, undyed linen ground
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width): 17 1/8 x 17 1/8in. (43.5 x 43.5cm)
ClassificationsTextiles
Credit LineMuseum purchase
Object number1981.8.0
DescriptionSampler worked in dark blue-green, medium blue-green, rust, light green, purple, gray, pink, peach, and yellow silk threads on a linen ground using cross stitch over two threads and other stitches. The sampler is square. It is laid out with seven rows of four alphabets, the numbers 1 through 10, and a stylistic floral and vine design, over two inscriptions flanked by large multi-colored columns. The first inscription is "Sabra Giddings/ Aged 11 Years". The second inscription is "Lisbon July 28 1838". The lines of alphabets and numbers are separated by various narrow borders, including straight and meandering lines. There are at least four diamonds and a heart. There is a narrow four-sided border.
The sampler has a 1/8-inch double-turned hem on the top and bottom edges, and selvedges on both sides. The sampler is not framed or mounted.
Letters and Numbers: There are four alphabets and the numbers 1-10. The letters are uppercase block in alphabets 1 and 4, lowercase block in alphabet 2, and uppercase script in alphabet 3. The letters J and U are present in all alphabets. The last alphabet is larger than the others. All lowercase letters with descenders, such as the letter 'g', are placed so the descender does not extend below the baseline.
Stitches: The principal stitch on the sampler is cross over two; it also includes rice, Algerian eye, long-armed cross, outline, and straight stitches.
Condition: The sampler has light to minimal fading. The ground has large water stains and color run. The sampler is not framed or mounted.
The sampler has a 1/8-inch double-turned hem on the top and bottom edges, and selvedges on both sides. The sampler is not framed or mounted.
Letters and Numbers: There are four alphabets and the numbers 1-10. The letters are uppercase block in alphabets 1 and 4, lowercase block in alphabet 2, and uppercase script in alphabet 3. The letters J and U are present in all alphabets. The last alphabet is larger than the others. All lowercase letters with descenders, such as the letter 'g', are placed so the descender does not extend below the baseline.
Stitches: The principal stitch on the sampler is cross over two; it also includes rice, Algerian eye, long-armed cross, outline, and straight stitches.
Condition: The sampler has light to minimal fading. The ground has large water stains and color run. The sampler is not framed or mounted.
Status
Not on view
