Sampler Practice Piece
Period1800 - 1830
MediumPlied silk thread on linen
Dimensions4 × 8 in. (10.2 × 20.3 cm)
ClassificationsNeedlework
Credit LineGift of Mrs. J. Amory Haskell, 1934
Object number708.6
DescriptionA small rectangular gauzy linen panel, with a selvedge along the right side, two narrow hems along the top and bottom, and a partially frayed whip stitched hem along the left edge. Five separate and scattered motifs in dark green, brick red, rose, coral pink, pale pink, light blue, and dark gray are worked entirely in Queen stitch. The largest motif is a blocky stylized strawberry vine embroidered near the lower right corner of the linen panel. In the extreme lower right corner is a small chevron or zig zag motif in pale blue and dark gray. In the upper right corner, a partially completed broad X-shaped motif appears in pale pink and blue around a dark green center. Two small scattered diamond motifs, both with green edging, are embroidered above the strawberry vine and near the left edge. A single dark green Queen stitch is worked in the upper left corner of the panel.Curatorial RemarksPart of a larger gift of needlework practice pieces, this small linen fragment may have originated from either New Jersey or Pennsylvania. Girls used smaller pieces of linen on which to try out stitches or motifs before working them on their actual samplers. The elements on this panel all utilize Queen stitch.
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