Jane Atkinson circa 1780

Description

This needlework was designed after an English sampler in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts-Boston. The lush border flowers are similar to those on a sampler made by Sarah Brignell from around the same period, suggesting the existence of a school or teacher whose specialty was opulent floral borders. The border includes elaborately stitched tulips, roses, carnations, daisies and lilies. The verse is as follows: What though my sins are of a Crimson stain, My saviours blood can wash me white again, Though numerous the twinkling stars they be, or sands along the margin of the sea Or as, smooth pebbles on some beachy shore, The mercies of the Almighty still are more. On 40 count linen, the sampler will measure approximately 14-1/2″ x 23″. Stitches used are cross, back, and counted satin. The project is recommended for intermediate level needleworkers. Reproduced by the Scarlet Letter.