Object number1997.7.120

Sampler

Date1806

Artist Sarah Coles (American, born 1793)

CultureAmerican, Philadelphia Quaker

MediumSilk embroidery floss on bast fiber, likely linen

DimensionsFramed: 19 × 18 1/4 in. (48.26 × 46.36 cm)
Unframed: 17 3/4 × 16 1/4 in. (45.09 × 41.28 cm)

Credit LineTransfer from Vassar College Libraries, Special Collections, Martha Clawson Reed Collection

Period19th c

Classification(s)

SignedUR: Sarah Coles

InscribedAt upper left: While some in / folly's pleasures rol / And seek the joys t / hat hurt the soul Be / mine that silent calm / repast, A peaceful co / nscience to the last; at upper right: Sarah Coles w / as born May 1st 179 / 3 finished this work the 17th of September 1806 in / the 13th year of her age

DescriptionThe outer border of this striking sampler consists of a regularly spaced winding daisy or white sunflower frame. The inner border is of small double chevrons. The top register is an alphabet and number sequence 1- 18, a dividing band, and an old-fashioned arcaded decorative band whose 3 divisions frame a verse, a stylized rose sprig, and the inscription respectively. Below an eyelet dividing band is another alphabet, a sawtooth divider and, in another 3 division arcade, a checkerboard hip roofed, 5 bay, 2 story house with double chimneys and a central roof dormer, flanked by two large white carnations.

Terms

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email loebcollections@vassar.edu