Sampler, 1868

This is a sampler worked by Sophia Maria Lomas from Nuneaton in 1868.

 

The text reads

I have found the joys of Heaven,

I am one of the angel band,

To my head a crown of gold,

Is given and a harp is in my hand,

I have learned the song they sing,

Whom Jesus hath set free,

And the glorious walls of Heaven,

Still ring with my new born melody

 

These are two verses from a hymn about The Believer in Glory.

SH.1965.243.1

 

Samplers were first made in the 1400s or 1500s as a way of remembering different types of stitches or patterns. Over time they evolved into pieces of work made by young girls, proving their knowledge and patience.

 

The Herbert has over 60 samplers in its collection. With volunteers from NADFAS we have recently completed a project to improve their storage and to make them more accessible. You can see some of the samplers on display at the Herbert in the History Gallery, Connected and in What's in Store.

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