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Object Timeline

1901

  • Work on this object began.

1925

  • Work on this object ended.

1941

  • We acquired this object.

2008

2015

2024

  • You found it!

Sampler (England)

This is a Sampler. It was embroidered by Eliza Townley. It is dated early 19th century and we acquired it in 1941. Its medium is silk embroidery, wool foundation and its technique is cross and stem stitches on plain weave. It is a part of the Textiles department.

This object was bequest of Mrs. Henry E. Coe. It is credited Bequest of Mrs. Henry E. Coe.

Its dimensions are

36.5 x 32.5 cm (14 3/8 x 12 13/16 in.)

It is signed

embroidered signature "Eliza Townley finished Dec.m 9th aged 11 years" "Catholic School, Congleton"

It is inscribed

embroidered text "Lord as through life's perplexing maze I stray Be thou the guiding star to mark my way Conduct the steps of my unguarded youth And point their motion to the paths of truth"

Cite this object as

Sampler (England); Embroidered by Eliza Townley (British); silk embroidery, wool foundation; 36.5 x 32.5 cm (14 3/8 x 12 13/16 in.); Bequest of Mrs. Henry E. Coe; 1941-69-87

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18564401/ |title=Sampler (England) |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=24 April 2024 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>