Sampler c. 1937

This "Sampler" was created by Barnes, who was born in 1855 and died in 1995. It showcases a vertical array of meticulously stitched floral motifs. The recurring bell-shaped flowers, rendered in delicate pinks and reds, capture our eye; these shapes can be traced back to ancient depictions of fertility and the earth's bounty. Think of the lotus in Egyptian art, or the lily in Renaissance paintings, each carrying layers of cultural meaning. Here, the motif is reinvented as a domestic craft, perhaps reflecting a longing for nature's embrace within the confines of home. These blooms strike a chord deep within our collective memory, echoing the cyclical patterns of life and renewal. The careful, repetitive stitching suggests a meditative act, a psychological anchor amidst the ebbs and flows of life. As we gaze upon this unassuming sampler, we witness the enduring power of symbols to connect us to our past, resurfacing in new and poignant forms.