Sampler

1804

Maker

Ann Seagrave (born 1791)

Measurements

21-1/2 in x 16-3/8 in (sight); frame: 24-1/2 in x 19-3/8 in x 1-3/8 in

Materials

Silk on linen

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3722

Inscription

In addition to rows of alphabets and numbers, text blocks include the following:

“Tho flowers the path of life adorn.  Yet often will / the rugged thorn amidst the flowers arise. / Think not then on earth so share Enjoyment an- / allay’d by care But seek it in the Skies.” 

“Ann Seagrave was born November 22d / 1791 did this work in the 12th year of her / age 1804 being the 28th year of American / Independence.”

Virtue’s sacred lamp alone / Unerring points the way / Where happiness forever shines / With unpolluted ray.” 

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

As was customary in the design and execution of samplers, this example shows off stitches, colors, motifs, rows of alphabets and numbers, and texts drawn from the many editions and versions of religious psalms and hymns readily available.  A key text block in the center identifies the maker, her age, and the date of the sampler, and notes that it was made in "the 28th year of American Independence."  The particular Ann Seagrave has not yet been identified, although she is surely American and possibly from the Philadelphia area.  Her sampler exhibits an angular floral vine border and stylized tree and floral basket motifs that may one day help identify the school or local area of origin.  Perhaps the most notable feature is the bright white and blue sawtooth bands rendered in satin stitches.  Other stitches include cross, eyelet, and tent stitches.