Sampler 1825

This 1825 sampler, created by Mary Ayer, is a traditional example of needlework from the early 19th century. The piece showcases a variety of stitches and techniques, including a decorative floral border, a woven alphabet, a short poem, and a landscape scene. The sampler's inscription, “Wrought by Mary Ayer, Charlestown, Oct 12, 1825," provides insight into the artist and her location. Samplers like this were often created by young women as a demonstration of their skills and were often displayed in homes, serving as a form of decorative art.