Description:

This woolwork sampler is a prime example of what girls were taught to stitch at school. A simple alphabet is followed by ever increasing large and decorative familial initials (IL, SL, GG, IG, EG, SG, EG, IG, IG, WG, BG, IS, WL, EL, IMCK, MS, AS, ITS, ML, ML, SL, ML, WG, Jh). 

The bottom of the sampler is anchored by a large floral urn and traditional Scottish peacocks. A straightforward signature line and basic strawberry borders complete the piece. 

Size (W x H): 10 1/4 x 21 1/4 inches

Stitches: Cross, rice, satin, eyelet, outline, scotch

Media: Wool on linen

Genealogy:

John Gellie and Elisabeth Leask were married in 1797 in Gamrie, in Banffshire. His occupation is listed as ag. lab., which means farm worker. The family moved to the small town of Danshillock, Aberdeenshire at some point - a distance of less than 10 miles. They christened their daughter Margaret 29 May 1804 at King Edward, Aberdeen. Birth date is registered as 25 May 1804. Records indicate that John's father, William, came down from Gamrie to Aberdeen for Marget's christening. We can find no additional records for Marget.

Verse:

BALMAD 29 JULY
1816 Marget Gellie