Sampler (Alphabet sampler)

Description

This is a plain alphabet sampler done entirely in cross-stitch with silk threads on a linen ground. These simple marking samplers were one of the first pieces of needlework that a girl would do, either at school or at home. An unusual feature in this sampler is the use of a metal thread for the line “A WORLD OF GOOD”. Metal thread was used in fancier 18th century samplers but rarely in marking samplers. The real value of this sampler is the person who made it. Elizabeth Lloyd (1742-1776) was the daughter of Edward Lloyd III, one of the richest men in America. Her father's will specified that Elizabeth be sent to the best school in Philadelphia or Annapolis at age 10. Although her father did not die before she reached that age it is presumed she was sent to school at age 10. If so, this might be her first sampler at that school. Winterthur owns portraits of the two brothers named on Elizabeth’s sampler. In 1768, Elizabeth Lloyd married John Cadwalader. Winterthur owns five chairs, a card table, a pole screen and possibly a looking glass made for their Philadelphia home.