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This remarkably fresh and unfaded multi-coloured silk embroidery is a detail of a band sampler stitched anonymously in 1661 and including the typically worthy verse:
So remember what thou takes in hand,
whether learning, money or land;
when land is gone, money is spent,
learning is most excellent.
The sampler has been worked by an expert needlewoman, probably a girl, and displays a variety of techniques including satin, cross, buttonhole, running and knotted end stitch. The motifs are predominantly stylised flowers and fruit, including roses and pineapples.

Inscription samplers with verses, names and dates first became popular after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660. This early example is part of the Filmer Collection and is on view in the gallery.

Full item descriptions:

"sampler" [2003.107]

Related Themes:

Filmer Collection
Embroidery