Vibrant Early 19th Century Schoolgirl Sampler

Details

Description

Highlighted by exceptionally vibrant hues of blues, greens, and mustards, this c1820s schoolgirl sampler wrought by 12 year old Elizabeth … Read more Highlighted by exceptionally vibrant hues of blues, greens, and mustards, this c1820s schoolgirl sampler wrought by 12 year old Elizabeth Gunsalus, showcases a high level of skill and design.

A central house, flanked by two reticulated baskets or urns adorned with flowers or bushes, dominates the lower half of the piece and draws the eye from across the room. Above is rendered a lovely cursive alphabet (missing the J), some thoughts on the virtues of good living, and Ms. Gunsalus’ signature. All of this is surrounded by an unusual multicolored border.

Most interestingly, this sampler is unfinished. One of the urns remains unfilled and part of the sayings are left in a lighter, possibly practice, color. The year is also partially missing with some evidence that the exact year was removed. The partial number after 18 looks like it was or was to be a 2. (Or maybe a 3).

Photos with the white background are of the sampler out of the frame. Listed dimensions are of the frame. See less