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Embroidery Sampler

Embroidery Sampler - Sampler
Accession #: 3877.2
Title: Embroidery Sampler
Object Type: Sampler
Participants:
Physical Description: This sampler is embroidered with blue and brown thread. There are five different alphabets and two different sets of numbers, as well as "Abiah + Stanley + 1793". Much of the embroidery appears faded. There is extensive damage along the top and bottom and sides. There are smaller holes in the middle of the sampler.
Description: Making an embroidered sampler like this one was an important part of a girl's education when Abiah Stanley Warren (1779-1864) was young. The ability to label household linens and clothing with embroidery was an essential skill at a time when all textiles were handwoven, and therefore very valuable. Samplers also provided an introduction to numerals and the alphabet. Abiah was born in New Hampshire during the Revolutionary War and spent the latter part of her life in New York state, where she died during the early years of the Civil War. Abiah's family members wrote numerous letters, which still exist, but the only written legacy we have of Abiah, apparently, is her sampler.
Category: Textiles
Subjects/Topics/Concepts:
Decorative Arts (Decorative Arts)
Dimensions:
Object H x W 10 x 8"
Materials/Techniques:
embroidery (Technique)
fabric (Material)
thread (Material)
Marks/Inscription:
abiah + stanley + 1793
Related Exhibits:
Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. C. B. Dunning, MSSC 186

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