Sampler 1704

This sampler, stitched by Rebecah Garland in 1704, showcases alphabets and stylized trees, traditional motifs in early American needlework. The alphabet, a symbol of knowledge and order, contrasts with the more organic, free-flowing imagery of the trees below. The tree motif is an ancient symbol, a sort of 'primal sign' that recurs across cultures and eras. Think of the Tree of Life, deeply rooted in ancient mythologies, connecting the earthly and divine realms. Similarly, we see trees represented in medieval tapestries, often associated with paradise and renewal. Here, Rebecah's trees evoke a garden, perhaps echoing the Garden of Eden, a space of innocence. This connects to a broader longing for paradise. These motifs are not static, their meanings have evolved, yet they retain a deep connection to human emotion and memory. These images, seemingly simple, resonate on a subconscious level, inviting us to contemplate themes of nature, knowledge, and the human search for meaning.