Early 19th century linen and silk work sampler by Mary Ann Hart aged 8 - 1827. This sampler is just stunning with fine quality stitch work throughout, the moreso when one considers Mary Ann was just eight years old when she finished it. The top edge of the linen is stitched with the letters of the alphabet worked in groups of three and separated by thin pink lines. Beneath these is a central flower basket with a crown above and a tulip basket, carnation motif and tree on either side, all underlined with an arcaded strawberry border. Beneath the border is the following verse stitched in black silk, underlined with a diamond border

Behold the labours of my tender age. And view this work which did my hours engage

With anxious care I did these colours place. A smile to gain from my dear parents face

Whose care for me I ever will regard, and hope that heaven will give a kind reward

My little faults I hope you will excuse. Then your commands on me I'll not refuse

Down each side of the verse are four floral motifs and Mary Ann's details and the date of 1827 are stitched below. The bottom edge of the linen is stitched with an intricate green border on which stands a central flower basket with tree and flower motifs on each side. At each of the bottom corners is a star with a tiny white bird above. There is a crown above the central flower basket with floral sprays, strawberry baskets, strawberry motifs and flower baskets on either side.

The linen has overall discolouration consistent with its age, slightly grubby and darker down the left side. The colours of the silks are good with some bleeding to the black stitch work. The last photo is of the reverse of the sampler and indicates how the colours would have looked when Mary Ann first stitched it. As can also be seen from the photographs, there are some areas of damage to the field of the linen. I've photographed the sampler on a white background to highlight this but once on a similar coloured backing the damage would be less noticeable. Also the edges of the linen have been cut at some point of time which has resulted in a small amount of stitch loss. Measures 12 1/2 " x 16 1/2 "

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PLEASE NOTE - THIS ITEM IS LOCATED IN THE UK BUT CAN BE SHIPPED TO THE LOCATIONS TICKED IN THE INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING SECTION 

SHIPPING WILL BE VIA ROYAL MAIL TRACK & SIGNED - $20.00 TO THE USA, ELSEWHERE PLEASE CONTACT ME.