Rare Needlework Sampler, Lucy Monroe, Probably New Hampshire, Circa 1825

Worked in silk threads and crinkled silk floss on linen in satin, padded satin, chain, split, back and cross-stitches with French knots and hem-stitching. Inscribed: 'Tis greatly wise to talk with our past hours/And ask them what report they bore to Heav'n Lucy Munroe aged 10 years. 17 by 13 inches. (23 threads to the inch). Together with a needlework sampler, New England, early 19th century of a young girl on a lawn (poor condition). 2 pieces.

Davida Deutsch, New York, April, 1974

Somewhat dark 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. 79, fig. 31

This sampler worked by Lucy Munroe displays an unusual number and variety of complex stitches rarely seen on samplers worked at this late date. This fact alone suggests that it may have been stitched at an earlier time. Stylistically, the sampler appears to have originated in southern New Hampshire, for similar flower motifs can be found on the embroidery worked in Jaffrey, New Hampshire, by Dolly Yalding (fig. 33) in 1826. The back-stitched outline of the basket of fruit that dominates the borderless design also implies a New Hampshire attribution. Not often found on samplers originating in other parts of New England, this dark outline, a skillful design technique, is effectively employed on the sampler motifs worked by Mehitable Foster in 1786 (fig. 8) and Sally Abbot in 1818 (fig. 28)-who were both from New Hampshire as well. The use of such contrasting outlines enhances the impact of these designs.