Rare lovely 18th century Spot sampler by Elizabeth Prow

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Rare lovely 18th century Spot sampler by Elizabeth Prow

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Sold Date: 03/24/2007
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay
Category: Textiles, Clothing & Accessories

Size of actual sampler is approx 31" by 10"

We are selling a rare and lovely Spot sampler that is full of fine examples of geometric designs and unusual patterns.The spot sampler was used to record stitches and design and was often based on middle eastern designs, with diamond shapes being one of the most popular. It was the foundation of the samplers that are mostly seen today and are sought after for their scarcity as well as the intricacy of the designs.

This one is mostly worked in fine wool with some small areas of silk, on what looks like a fine linen or hessian backing. Mostly these types of samplers were un-named, but on the reverse of this example t is a label that is written in ink which reads:-

"Worked by my great-grandmother Elizabeth Prow of Barwell, Leicestershire, about the year 1780."

The colours are completely unfaded, and include:-blue,yellow,white,fawn,red,brown,pink,green,black,silver and gold.

As you can see from the photographs, the lady who made this was able to work the wool extremely finely, and produced some of the most intricate designs we have come across, high-lighting some areas with the use of silk. You could almost say that these type of samplers had elements that were a fore-runner of the abstract art movement by several hundred years, although what they did was exemplify the creativity and the skill of the individual who produced them, and demonstrated what could be achieved by a skilled pair of hands.

Condition is very good for its age, but about five of the designs have some threads missing, although eminently restorable. Altogether this rare item is in great condition, with no signs of fading,holes,stains or brittleness, and will enhance any collection when it is married to a respectable frame.

It will be sold without a frame.

Total cost to the US including full insurance will be $32.00

Total cost to the UK by special next day delivery will be $14.00