Explore the CollectionBand Sampler. Caroline Weeks

Measurements

55cm x 43.5cm

Place of Origin

England

Physical Description

Band sampler comprising four bands and a deep and complex arcaded floral (honeysuckle?) border. Like all four bands, the topmost band is symmetrical. There is a central vase of striped tulips and carnations with a large tree either side. Birds, sheep, and a butterfly complete the band which is separated from the verse that follows by a solid band of grass. The verse, which is remarkably like the last eight lines from the poem 'The Search After Happiness' by Henry Johnson, is centred between two large pots of flowers. The third band depicts a central bird on a leafy sprig with a decorative floral motif incorporating a bowl of fruit on either side. The main motif on the fourth band is a large vase with birds and various blooms sprawling from it across the width of the sampler. Rabbits and dogs complete the band with another solid band of grass beneath them. Green is the predominant thread colour, with some navy blue, yellow, white, brown (once black perhaps?) and a touch of pink. Silk thread on fine cream tammy cloth. Cross stitch over two threads is used for the motifs and over one thread for the lettering. Signed 'Caroline Weeks Finished this work May third 1836 Aged 10 years’. Private Collection