This Frisian sampler underneath has it all: a great condition, many interesting patterns and alphabets combined with fine work and a very, very early date. There are only a few samplers known in the Netherlands with an earlier date. And what's more, in Samplerworld there are just a couple with earlier dates.
The sampler, signed and dated IF 1653, has original patterns taken from the 16th century pattern books. It was made with silks in mostly the long- armed cross-, back- and running stitches. It means that the sampler was very neatly worked on the back.
The double headed eagle, also seen on other similar samplers from this period, indicates the existence of asmall group of about six known samplers, possibly coming from the same school in the city of Bolsward. Such an excellent level of education!
Collection Ex, Amsterdam
The backside:
Collection Ex, Amsterdam
