Alphabet Needlework Sampler Appraisal

Antique 1836 Alphabet Needlework Sampler by Susanna Wire

This is a nineteenth-century needlework sampler stitched on a linen or fine canvas ground, presented in a dark-toned decorative frame. The piece features a prominent strawberry vine border with green leaves and red berries encircling several rows of alphabets in varying scripts (lower-case, block capitals, and cursive) and a numerical sequence. Beneath the alphabets is a religious verse that reads: 'Order my footsteps by thy word, And make my heart sincere, Let sin have no dominion Lord, But keep my conscience clear.' The piece is signed 'Susanna Wire's work, Earlytown, Sept 13th 1836,' providing a specific date and maker. Measuring approximately 12-14 inches square within the frame, the sampler shows signs of age-appropriate condition including overall yellowing of the fabric, minor foxing/spotting, and some unevenness in the tension of the ground material. The stitching remains vibrant in areas, particularly the red and green silk or wool threads, though some fading is evident. The craftsmanship is of a high standard for a young student, showcasing a mastery of cross-stitch and specialty border stitches typical of early Victorian-era domestic education.