Needlework Sampler, Mary Mitchell, Probably Pennsylvania, Dated 1823

Worked in silk threads on linen in Gobelin, slanted Gobelin, couched satin, padded satin, satin, straight, Smyrna, outline, four-sided and cross-stitches. Inscribed: Sweet are the lark's aspiring lays,/The buoyant clouds among:/But sweeter far the Savior's praise/In youth's devoted song Mary Mitchell's Work. 1823. Some minor discoloration and loss upper right. 18 1/4  by 17 3/4  inches. (26 threads to the inch).

Adams House Antiques, Tustin, California, May, 1980

Some darkening and with some fading. Repair to center right.
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.103-104, fig. 44

This charming pictorial sampler was worked by Mary Mitchell somewhere in the Mid-Atlantic States, probably Pennsylvania. Schoolmistresses in this area were known for designing elaborately designed sampler scenes featuring large buildings with wide, green fields in the foreground, such as that worked by Elizabeth Stine (fig. 13). Enclosed within a traditional strawberry border is an impressive, bright yellow public building with an arcaded cupola, capped by a globed weathervane and round gray clock. Dainty finials adorn the roofline, while high above the doors, just below the pediment's half-circle window, Mary has worked, in the smallest of black silk stitches, a puzzling inscription in what may be an embroidered version of Roman numerals. Prominently positioned on the village green is a group of elaborately costumed women, men, and children, along with animals. Enormous Quaker-style flower motifs adorn the linen ground, quite out of proportion with the surrounding diminutive scene. Mary Mitchell's finely worked stitches have been cleverly enhanced with a shade of pink that seems to add a sparkle to this delightful sampler picture. Long ago, damaged areas were mended with cotton threads, carefully woven through a brown paper bag.