Needlework Sampler Value Guide

This 1836 needlework sampler from Ireland represents a significant piece of 19th-century domestic history, crafted by 13-year-old Martha Southwick of Dublin. Such pieces are highly collectible as they serve as both a genealogical record and a physical manifestation of a young girl's literacy and needlework education.

What Is Needlework Sampler Worth?

The typical price range for Needlework Sampler is $250 - $400 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of a specific name, location (Dublin), and date (1836) significantly enhances the provenance and market value.
• The condition of the silk threads, specifically the lack of fading or 'shattering' from UV exposure, is a primary value driver.
• The complexity and variety of the motifs, including the alphabet, numbers, and floral borders, impact the final appraisal.
• The overall state of the linen ground, including the absence of foxing, water stains, or moth damage.

How to Identify Needlework Sampler?

• Verify the presence of the specific inscription 'Martha Southwick Dublin Aged 13 1836' stitched into the design.
• Examine the base material for the characteristic weave of authentic 19th-century linen.
• Look for the natural sheen and slight irregularities of hand-dyed silk threads used for the alphabet and floral motifs.
• Check for period-appropriate aging on the wood frame, which should show signs of oxidation and wear consistent with its age.

History of Needlework Sampler

Needlework samplers were traditionally created by young girls as a means to learn and practice various stitching techniques, as well as to display their literacy and artistic skills. Often dating back to the 17th century, these pieces served as both educational tools and decorative household items, frequently featuring alphabets, numbers, moral verses, and scenes from daily life. The inclusion of a name and date, such as 'Martha Southwick Dublin Aged 13 1836' as seen in the Google Lens results, was common, marking the completion of the girl's work.