This early needlepoint sampler has the highly collectible Adam and Eve theme. It's dated 1844. The stitches still retain most of their color. The scene depicts Adam on one side and Eve on the other side, with a serpent wrapped around the tree in the middle. Angels hover above. There are houses on each side. At the top of the needlepoint are various styles of the alphabet and two floral topiaries. The wreath in the middle has three initials in the center, most likely those of the young lady who stitched the sampler, so many years ago. The framed sampler measures 15.25" x 15.25". It's in remarkable condition for its age but shows the normal issues of a piece of its time. There are areas where the fabric is torn or worn away, a few holes and some stains. Some of the letters have faded away. This sampler appears to still be in the original carved walnut frame. There are pine strips on the back. The wire from which it hung is very old. This is a delightful example of the skill of a time gone by. It has everything a collector would want in an early sampler.