Merklap en stoplap met rood borduurwerk. c. 1895

"Merklap en stoplap met rood borduurwerk" (c. 1895) is a sampler created by Dutch artist Trijntje de Graaf. This small, square piece of needlework displays a variety of stitches and patterns including alphabets, numbers, and decorative borders. Samplers, like this one, were often created by young girls to demonstrate their needlework skills. They are a testament to the dedication and artistry of women throughout history. The use of red thread on a white background adds a striking contrast and emphasizes the detail of the stitching.