Object number1960.9.114

Sampler

Date1820

Artist Sarah Retzer (American, born 1807)

CultureAmerican

MediumSilk threads on linen ground with silk mounting fabric

DimensionsImage: 25 1/4 x 21 3/8 in. (64.1 x 54.3 cm)
Overall: 37 3/8 x 31 1/4 in. (94.9 x 79.4 cm)
Matted: 38 x 32 in. (96.5 x 81.3 cm)

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

On View

Not on view

Period19th c

Classification(s)

SignedAt bottom center: Sarah Retzer

InscribedAt center (in black thread): The God of Life whose constant care / With Blessings crowns each opning year. / My scanty span doth still prolong. / And wakes anew mine annual song. / How many precious souls are fled. / To the vast regions of the dead. / Since to this day the changing sun. / Thro his last yearly period run. / We yet survive but who can say / Or through this year or month or day / I shall retain this ___(illegible) breath. / Thus far at least in league with death. / That breath is thine eternal god. / Tis thine to fix my souls abode. / It holds its life from thee alone. / On earth or in the world unknown.

Exhibition HistoryAlbany Institute Bicentennial Exhibition 1976 (?)
DescriptionThis sampler has the alphabet embroidered twice in two rows across the top. The remaining area below is centered on 4 verses or stanzas of 4 lines each, stitched in black with black dividing lines, above an inscription naming the maker, her age, the date of sampler completion, and a fruit tree. Flanking these elements are trees, flowers, urns, baskets, birds and flowering shrubs, displayed with some attempts at symmetry in colors of pink, green, white, tan, yellow and blue. At the bottom of the composition is a formal geometric and floral decorative band. The sampler body is framed by flowering vines of honeysuckle on the vertical sides and roses across the top.

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