Biblical Sampler 1799 - 1805

Ann Magdalen Yates' "Biblical Sampler" (1799-1805), now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a captivating example of needlework artistry from the late 18th century. This sampler, featuring a geometric border and scenes of daily life, is a testament to the craftsmanship and tradition of early American needlework. The sampler's inscription, "And magnify the works of the Lord," reflects the religious themes common in the works of this era. Yates' skill is evident in the meticulous stitches and vibrant colors employed in the depiction of figures, landscapes, and the symbolic house. "Biblical Sampler" offers a glimpse into the life and artistic sensibilities of a young woman in 19th-century America.