M. Wilson,

A beautiful sampler with an unusually refined nature, this is signed, M. Wilson and dated 1804. Included in the oval near the top is the classic sampler aphorism, “Tis Education forms the tender mind,” and, near the bottom within a little garland upheld by two birds, another of the same sort, “A Good name is better than Riches.” 

The pictorial motifs – including a cottage, fence and willow tree scene, large birds on little trees, four potted urns with flowers, elegant bowknot, tiny peacocks, and a basket of fruit are worked in the finest stitches. A tightly worked strawberry on vine border frames the composition well. 

Worked in silk on wool, the sampler is in excellent condition. It has been conservation mounted and is in a molded and black painted frame.