Rare Needlework Sampler, Miss Elizabeth Stymets, New York City, circa 1786

Fully worked with silk on linen; signed along the bottom, Miss Elizabeth Stymets Her Work 10 years (date removed).

Kay Beardsley.

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art (p. 31, fig. 48)

Overall good condition; new frame.
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.

Probably, it was Elizabeth who removed the date of her sampler in later life. Her work belongs to the above-mentioned New York group, and a very similar piece was made by Mary Youle in 1786 (see Sotheby's important American Furniture and Folk Art , Sale 5228, December 8, 1984, Lot 145. Possibly, this girl was the Elizabeth Stymets who married James Smith in Trinity Church parish on April
30, 1796.