Alphabet Sampler with Whitework
1683
Physical Qualities
Linen ground, silk and linen embroidery threads, 32 7/8 x 8 7/8 in. (83.4 x 22.5 cm.)
Credit Line
Jacqueline H. Hess Needlework Fund
Object Number
1972.35.2
A long, narrow sampler consisting of a linen ground embroidered in bands of various designs and widths including (from the top): a ...' band of shaking hands surrounded by floral and acorn designs worked in green? threads using a reversible stitch--possibly outline, double running, or backstitch, a ...? band of larger acorn designs worked in blue thread using stem stitch, a wider band of figural motifs, traditionally called 'boxers,' worked in backstitch, a ...' band of Tudor roses and other floral motifs worked in ....stitches, several narrow bands of border patterns, including a guilloche, worked in blue, gold, and green threads using an Italian cross stitch, and an alphabet composed of ...' capital block letters 'ABCDEFGHIKLMN/ OPQRSTVWXYZ' (no 'J' or 'U'). The bottom portion of the sampler is worked entirely in white threads in diamond patterns with initials, a date, and a second alphabet also composed of ...'`capital block letters 'ABCEDFGHIK/LMNOPQ [note the Q is backwards] RSTV/WXYZ ED/1684' (no 'J' or 'U') worked in Algerian eye and satin stitches. The ground is plain-woven linen. The top edge is a selvage and the bottom edge is cut, frayed, and folded under. The side edges are hemmed.
Baltimore Museum of Art by purchase, 1972; Mr. George B. Hess, Sr. , Pennsylvania.
BMA, 'Decorative Arts Accessions 1968-1973,' February 27 - April 15, 1973.
Anita Jones, BMA, 'In 'Prayse of the Needle': English Needlework from the 17th through the 19th Centuries,' August 13, 1997 - February 13, 1998.
Anita Jones, BMA, 'In 'Prayse of the Needle': English Needlework from the 17th through the 19th Centuries,' August 13, 1997 - February 13, 1998.
Inscribed: See Description for complete listing of all inscriptions. Signed in embroidery at the bottom of the sampler: 'E D/1684'
