Not currently on display at the V&A

Sampler

1871 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

The earliest samplers were reference works for embroiderers. They showed 'samples' of patterns and stitches and recorded how to achieve particular effects. In Europe in the 17th century samplers provided instruction and practice for girls learning needlework. Making a sampler was part of a girl's school education throughout the 18th century and into the early 1800s. By this time embroidered samplers were very often a simple and undemanding exercise. This sampler is well made but otherwise typical. The needleworker probably copied the decoration from pattern books.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Materials and techniques
Embroidered in silks on wool
Brief description
Sampler of embroidered woollen canvas with coloured silks, embroidered by Jemima Clements, England, 1871
Physical description
Sampler of embroidered woollen canvas with coloured silks in cross and satin stitches. At the top is a pious verse between two wolves with three fleurs de lys below. Below is a stag with trees, ships and pears symmetrically arranged on either side. Below this is a vase of carnations in the centre, with a jug, insect, vase of flowers, heart and crown on either side. At the bottom is the inscription 'Jemima Clements / Aged 12 Years / 1871' with a rabbit on either side. Wavy border of bunches of grapes.
Dimensions
  • Width: 13.125in
  • Length: 16in
Marks and inscriptions
  • Give me thy heart the Saviour cries O may we hear his voice In these early days be wise And make a heavenly choise
  • Jemima Clements Aged 12 years 1871
  • Transliteration
    .
Credit line
Given by Miss M. C. Sparrow, from the collection of Miss Marjory Bine Renshaw
Subjects depicted
Summary
The earliest samplers were reference works for embroiderers. They showed 'samples' of patterns and stitches and recorded how to achieve particular effects. In Europe in the 17th century samplers provided instruction and practice for girls learning needlework. Making a sampler was part of a girl's school education throughout the 18th century and into the early 1800s. By this time embroidered samplers were very often a simple and undemanding exercise. This sampler is well made but otherwise typical. The needleworker probably copied the decoration from pattern books.
Collection
Accession number
T.322-1960

About this object record

Explore the Collections contains over a million catalogue records, and over half a million images. It is a working database that includes information compiled over the life of the museum. Some of our records may contain offensive and discriminatory language, or reflect outdated ideas, practice and analysis. We are committed to addressing these issues, and to review and update our records accordingly.

You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.

Suggest feedback

Record createdOctober 13, 2005
Record URL
Download as: JSONIIIF Manifest