Rare Needlework Sampler, Elizabeth Brown, Probably Massachusetts, Dated 1834

Worked in twisted silk threads and crinkled silk floss on linen in split, tent, chain, queen, satin and cross-stitches. Inscribed: O hiLLs O vaLes whare I have strayd/O woods that rapt me in your shade/O scenes that I have wandered over/O scenes I shaLL behoLd no more/I take a Longe Last Lingering view/Adieu my native Land adieu Elizabeth Brown's Work 1834. 17 3/4  by 21 inches. (30 threads to the inch).

Purchased February, 1990

Somewhat darkened and with some fading.
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.

Exhibited and Literature: LACMA, pp. 70-71, fig. 26

Although Elizabeth Brown's schoolmistress remains anonymous, this sampler reveals a wealth of information about her. This talented teacher's venturesome design is delightfully colorful. The embroidery is framed by a bold, geometric border worked in vines, leafy stems, and large, open-faced flowers. Visually dramatic, this strong design element, probably indicative of her teaching approach, establishes the format. It presents a natural setting for the wedge-shaped platform at the center of the bottom that embraces a decorative basket of oversized roses. This schoolmistress imaginatively inserted trees to fill the panels at each side, one a tree of ripening apples, the other delicately entwined with a vine of faded yellow silk grapes. Strawberry buds and sprightly birds embellish the border across the bottom. Elizabeth's verse is enclosed within a dainty cartouche of flowered sprigs. To either side, handled urns – resembling blue-and-white patterned porcelain – have been embroidered. The stitches have been most skillfully executed. As Elizabeth Brown's sampler is reminiscent of a group of large, floral-bordered samplers worked in northeastern Massachusetts near Newburyport, she may have attended an unidentified school for girls in that vicinity.