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. A ten year old girl made this sampler, using simple cross stitch. She has included a solemn prayer to her dead mother alongside a moral verse on the importance of counting one's blessings in life.