Samplers Kunst & Vliegwerk

From the German Sampler Museum, Celle, Germany.

This sampler was made in the German state of Thuringia (in southeastern Germany).

This type of sampler was not made to be displayed on the wall, but rather as a reference piece. The German Sampler Museum holds a number of similar samplers, with no top or bottom, left nor right side (hence we have pictured it both horizontally and vertically).

This piece was made in a rural area, worked on a slightly coarser linen than urban examples. The sampler contains motifs from Johann Sibmacher's 1597 and 1601 pattern books, including the elaborate peacock, Lamb of God, the corner motifs depicting leaping stags, flowers formed by joining four hearts, and the stars pattern band. Adam and Eve are highly stylized, and appear in similar form on other German samplers of the same period. Stitches used are cross, back, and eyelet.

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.