Christmas Sampler dated 1855 Miss Mary Leng

Glorious sampler worked in December of “1855” by Miss Mary Elizabeth Leng exhibits traditional red and green thread in keeping with the Christmas theme. A textile of this nature is considered rare and extremely hard to find as most samplers created do not lend significant importance to the Christmas holiday.

This sampler was worked on Penelope or duo canvas. Thread colors are strong and depict a pretty floral and foliate bottom border lending two opposing floral sprays on the edge. The alphabet and numbers done in red are seemingly protected by a green border above and below presenting a series of Greek key and scroll designs.

Minor thread loss to the capital letter “A” and also regarding the last set of lower case letters pertaining to the “t” and “u” (reference image with arrows). Some toning is present that appear in small clusters randomly throughout. There are no holes to report. Sampler is housed under glass and exhibits a plain black frame (not wood).

Miss Mary may have worked this piece in England as the back label suggests. “Boots” is a nationwide chemist and pharmacist in the UK, and offered a picture framing service from 1894 to 1963 or later. In 1894 the business advertised itself as 'Print sellers, Carvers and Gilders, Picture Frame Manufacturers, Artists' Colourmen' selling 'English Gold Frames of the Highest Quality'.

Of course, this sampler was worked earlier and therefore re-framed later. It is hard to be sure as there are no indications in the motifs to narrow down the exact country of origin (England or American).

This sampler is nicely executed and is bursting with joyful colors and design elements contributed to the Christmas holiday. A very special piece that would certainly add holiday magic to any room of your choosing!

****Custom gift wrapped just for you or that special friend (see last image)! Enjoy!****

Measures 12” tall, measures 11 1/2” across and is ¾” deep.