Antique Sampler, 1808, by Martha Watts

George III, dated 1808. 19ins by 12.5 ins wide. 1808 Sampler by Martha Watts. Framed in an old wood frame with glass. Tacked onto to a wooden stretcher frame.

White, acid free card insert for backing.

The sampler is worked in silk on linen ground, in a variety of stitches.

Meandering strawberry border.

Colours brown, cream, copper, gold, green and black.

Verses read,

'Give first to God the flower of thy youth. Take for thy guide the blessed word of truth.

Adorn thy soul with grace prize Wisdom more. Than all the pearls upon the Indian shore'.

'Strive to subdue thy sin when first beginning. Custom when once confirm'd is strangely winning

Labour for peace seek to contend with none. Let the sweet calmness keep the throne'.

'Treading fears wrath and lawless passion down. The grace of meekness is a Woman's crown.

Be loving patient courteous and kind. In so doing thou shalt praise and honour find.'.

And,

'Here upon earth and when all conquering death. Thy body shall dissolve and stop thy breath.

Upon the golden wings of faith and love. Thy soul shall fly to paradise above.'.

Signed and dated 'Martha Watts Febry 29 1808 Stone School'.

A good set of motifs, including a house, stars, potted flowering plants, trees, laden with fruit, stags, butterflies and a lady and a gentleman.

CONDITION: Generally Good. A number of small holes.

Some patchy staining.

Some stitch losses to the border, divider lines, the signature, motifs and verses.

Colours are slightly faded, but still well defined. No colour run. Stretching is slightly uneven.

The white card backing does not extend into the border and it is therefore visible where the backing ends.

Frame in good condition, ready to hang.

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