Object number1960.9.89

Sampler

Date1829

Artist Elizabeth Heysham (English)

CultureEnglish

MediumSilk embroidery threads on wool ground

DimensionsTextile: 20 3/8 × 17 1/4 in. (51.75 × 43.82 cm)
Strainer: 22 5/8 × 18 1/4 in. (57.47 × 46.36 cm)

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

Period19th c

Classification(s)

SignedAt BC: Elizabeth / Heysham

InscribedBehold! The labor of my tender age / The work that did my studious hours engage, / With anxious care I did those colors place / To gain a smile from my dear Parents face. / Pray give my little merits all their due / For all my pleasure lies in pleasing you / God prosper them who gave me this / And crown them with immortal bliss. Elizabeth / Heysham / Christmas / 1829

DescriptionReplete with formally balanced, highly detailed, paired floral and faunal motifs and mirrored vignettes the Elizabeth Heysham sampler is a masterly designed and worked cross stitch sampler centered around a large Georgian style house and an eight line verse presenting her embroidered accomplishment and thanking her parents for her education. The composition is framed by a intricate rosebud border. Colors are greens, browns, tan, cream, gold, pink, white, black, and red.

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