Needlework Sampler, Mary Lehn, Southeastern Pennsylvania, dated 1819

Worked in silk on linen with "spot" motifs. Signed Mary Lehn...  Height 20 in. by width 20 in.

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the colelction of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art (p. 42, fig. 68)

In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Mary's spot motif form is typical of German and Pennsylvania German samplers of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Earlier Pennsylvania examples are usually more densely filled with motifs, but they became increasingly open as the nineteenth century progressed. The inscription reads I am Mary Lehn Heaven is my dwelling place I was born on March 3 18 4.