Embroidered spot sampler

Unknown

first half 17th century · Silk and metal thread on linen · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Spot samplers feature motifs that are scattered in a seemingly random fashion over the surface of the foundation fabric, usually linen. These samplers are rarely signed or dated, and often include motifs that are only partially worked, leading to the conclusion that this type of sampler was made as a personal stitch reference for its maker, and not for display, as band samplers were signed by student embroiderers. The sampler features geometric spots, many of which are worked as diaper patterns (a pattern that has a regular repeat in all directions). The spots are stitched primarily of green and metal threads.

Artist

Unknown

Date

first half 17th century

Medium

Silk and metal thread on linen

Culture

British

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

From the Collection of Mrs. Lathrop Colgate Harper, Bequest of Mabel Herbert Harper, 1957