Antique English Textile Sampler Signed Sarah Ash Dated 1829

This charming and evocative antique sampler, hand-stitched in 1829 by Sarah Ash, beautifully exemplifies the domestic needlework tradition of the early 19th century. Worked in fine threads on linen, the sampler features multiple alphabets in upper and lower case, numerals, decorative border motifs, and a poignant hymn written by Isaac Watts of London: 

Why should I say, “‘Tis yet too soon
“To seek for heaven or think of death?”
A flower may fade before ‘tis noon,
And I this day may lose my breath.

I love the crowns Sarah added! The inscription at the bottom reads:"Sarah Ash finish’d this work Feb. 18, 1829”, giving this piece a personal and historical resonance. Set in a period-appropriate wood frame with gilt slip, this sampler is a fine example of early 19th-century girlhood education, textile artistry, and sentimentality. 

Backed by paper to prevent the original wood boards from damaging the linen, a past owner added a metal hanger. It’s obvious that little Sarah Ash had the usual school girl problems with spacing in some areas, which is what I find the most charming about these hand stitched pieces from so long ago. A beautiful sampler, with all the stories and charm of centuries past.

• Measures 15" x 11-1/2".