Unlike today, historically samplers were not sewn to commemorate holidays, weddings, births or other occasions (with the notable exceptions of family record and mourning works). While this particular sampler might appear to have been ahead of its time, in fact it is simply an anomaly. However the choice of colour (predominantly reds and greens), the evergreen tree at the bottom, and the verse from a popular new Christmas hymn in 1801, result in a piece that is perhaps even more meaningful today than it was when it was first made.

Today's Christmas conventions were largely unknown in 1801, which gives this piece a sense of timelessness. Whether the sampler is English or American in origin remains under debate.

It was worked on a loosely woven homespun linen, with rather coarse silk flosses. The colours were preserved exactly as you see them on this reproduction.

Origin and date: England or America, 1801

Suitable for all levels, stitched fully in cross stitch.

Linen count and finished size: 25 count, 17-3/4" square. Kit contains fabric, cotton or silk thread, needle and instructions.

Source: Private collection