As the purpose for making samplers evolved over the decades and the centuries, so did its form. This beautiful early 18th century English band sampler retains the shape of her predecessors, but has clearly changed into a form distinctly recognizable as a product of her generation. The original sampler was meticulously stitched, using counted satin, back, eyelet, and cross stitches. One of the most fascinating aspects of this sampler is in one of the verses:

Ann Johnson is my name
And England is my Nation
Cursitors Ally is my dwelling place
And Christ is my salvation

Rather than naming the city where she lived (London), which was customary with this common verse, she specifically names the street where she lived (Cursitors Ally), at that time a typical upper middle class residential area. A reproduction of a map of London from 1746, showing this street, is included with with kit.

Photo of Original Antique Sampler