Embroidered sampler

This sampler, which features various geometric motifs, and an alphabet, is typical of Marken Island samplers, which are characterized by bands of colorful patterns. Girls stitched these bands to practice patterns for "vernaaide linten"- ribbons that were attached to a cap and which were an important part of the costume tradition on Marken Island. These ribbons consisted of black embroidery on white linen. The women of Marken are said to have kept their samplers in or near their kitchens for handy reference, so much of the needlework appears darkened from residue from cooking fires. Samplers from this area, including this one, often include striped horses. Other motifs include a ship, dog in a house or other enclosure, and striped rooster. The initials "LP," which are stitched several times, are probably the initials of the sampler’s maker.