Laura Hyde

Laura Hyde was a needlework artist active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Her sampler, dated June 27, 1800, features a variety of motifs common to the genre, including a stylized American eagle, floral designs, a goat, and a depiction of ships at sea. The sampler also includes a depiction of a building which may be a representation of the artist's home or a significant local structure. The intricate details and craftsmanship of the sampler showcase Hyde's skill and provide insights into the artistic practices of the period. Samplers like Hyde's served a dual purpose as decorative objects and instructional tools, demonstrating the skills and knowledge of young women in needlework.