Explore the CollectionLong Band Sampler. MC

Measurements

79cm x 29cm

Place of Origin

England

Physical Description

Long, narrow, band sampler worked in multicoloured silks on extremely fine unbleached linen. The loom width of the linen has determined the length as the selvedge edges are placed at the top and bottom edges. There are eighteen bands with floral repeat patterns of varying height and complexity and an alphabet at the very bottom with no 'J' or 'U'. A female figure is depicted in outline in the large central band. She is wearing the costume of the period and reminiscent of Elizabeth I. This figure is flanked by fruit trees and flowers, also mostly in outline. Pictorial compositions such as this are unusual in samplers of this period. Most common are the linear or all-over repeats of floral elements as worked in the other bands of this sampler. Pansies, irises, carnations, lilies, roses, daisies and honeysuckle are represented. Acorns and bunches of grapes feature as well. The arcades, also known as indents or crenelations, that support the elements of the design within the bands vary in complexity, with an interlinked chain worked in one large band: others having a simple, single or double row arcade, some with foliage. Counted thread work was the predominant form of embroidery on seventeenth century samplers. Here, double running stitch has been used extensively on the top two thirds of the sampler to delicate effect. Rococo and seed stitch can be found too. Cross stitch and Montenegrin stitch have been used on the bottom third to create bolder and more textured designs. Colours of blue and green predominate with touches of red, peach and beige. Although undated, the motifs, etc indicate mid seventeenth century, say c1660. Signed ‘MC’. Private Collection