Applique Linen Panel 1935 - 1942

This appliqued linen panel was created by Beverly Chichester, around 1834. At first glance, the needlework sampler appears as a decorative piece, however, the piece invites us to consider the lives of women in the 19th century, and their limited forms of expression. Inscribed on the linen, is a short dedication: "My Dear James when this you see remember me, Mary Decatur 1834." The sentimentality contrasts with the labor and skill involved in its creation. Through this lens, the embroidery becomes more than just a quaint artifact; it’s a coded expression of love and memory. The shapes of people and flowers, the basket with the message, they are all symbols of human relationships and experiences of the time. It maintains the traditional representation of a sampler but subverts it with a personal touch and a hidden emotional depth. It's a poignant reminder of how women have historically used art to communicate their inner lives.