Object number1960.9.65

Sampler

Date1812

Artist Elizabeth Megson (English)

CultureEnglish

Mediumsilk threads on linen ground

DimensionsFramed: 20 1/16 x 13 in. (51 x 33 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mrs. James W. Packard (Elizabeth Gillmer, class of 1894)

On View

Not on view

Period19th c

Classification(s)

Signed Elizabeth Megson

InscribedInscribed: Fragrant the Rose is but it fades in time / The Violet's sweet but quickly past its prime. / White lillies hang their heads and soon decay. / And whiter snow in minutes melts away. / Such and so withering are our early joys. / Which time or sickness speedily destroys. At center: Elizabeth Megson Work done in the 12th Year of her Age 1812

DescriptionAt the top of the Elizabeth Megson sampler are an upper and a lower case alphabet and number sequence , and a scattering of small motifs, including confronting lions, hearts, crowns and stars, bracketed by 2 large geometricized pink and white rosebuds. The verse below is set between an alternating rosebud and tulip decorative band and a carnation band , the floral motifs enlivened by different patterns of infill cross stitch in pinks, yellows. golds and cream. More rosebuds and a sprig of blue flowers with yellow centers embellish the verse to the left. Various kinds and sizes of floral sprigs, a white spotted deer between two pine trees, butterflies and birds, including a peacock and a turkey are ranged around the inscription in the bottom register. A multi-color arcaded border of flowers, rosebuds and stars surrounds the composition. The sampler is a good example of the similarities of motifs and the differences of interpretation between some Yorkshire and Norfolk samplers.

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