Border 17th-18th century

This undated artwork titled "Border" was made by an anonymous artist using embroidery. The sampler presents a series of ornamental patterns stitched onto a linen ground. The embroidery uses basic cross-stitch to create a variety of designs. The arrangement of the patterns invites a structuralist analysis. Each row displays a unique combination of geometric and abstract motifs, showcasing the embroiderer's mastery and creativity within a constrained medium. The materiality of the linen and thread contributes to the artwork's texture and depth. The stitches, though small, collectively form a tactile surface that engages the viewer beyond the visual. The inclusion of a human figure at the bottom adds an element of narrative, contrasting the geometric precision of the other patterns. The artist destabilizes a fixed meaning, inviting interpretations that acknowledge both the aesthetic and symbolic functions of the piece. This interplay between structure and symbolism highlights the work's complexity and enduring appeal.