Biblical Sampler

Art Historical Context

Created around 1802 by Ann Magdalen Yates, this silk embroidery on linen exemplifies the refined needlework tradition practiced by young women in early America. Measuring just under 16 by 19 inches, the sampler likely depicts a biblical narrative framed by houses, trees, and female figures, blending religious instruction with decorative skill. Such works served both as educational exercises and personal accomplishments, allowing girls to demonstrate mastery of stitches while absorbing moral lessons from scripture. In the Federal period, samplers like this one held cultural importance as marke...