CHART PACK: 8 color pages
Marie Joséphine Brayard 1856 Reproduction Sampler
REPRODUCTION SAMPLER PATTERN, BY Couleur Tourterelle
This French mid-19th century sampler is part of the personal collection of Meriem Chauvet of Couleur Tourterelle . While Meriem chose to personalized her stitched work with her own initials and date the sampler was completed, the chart is the exact replica of the original sampler (see last photo).
This type of sampler is know as a “marquette” in French because it was used both as a model for letters used for “marking” household linen and for learning or practicing needlework. Stitched in a single color, it includes two alphabets, numbers and hardly any ornamentation except for a few simple friezes and the bird motif.
The two alphabets, one in uppercase and the other in lowercase, are preceded by a cross, named “La croix de par Dieu” in French. This cross, always preceding letter A, was also found on books used for learning to read, reminding children that they had to make a sign of the cross before reciting their alphabet.
Original Sampler (last photo) worked in cross stitch, over 2 fabric threads. Size 10 ¼ x 9 ½ inch (26 x 24 cm).
Reproduction Sampler stitched using Gentle Art Sampler Thread , with cross stitches worked over 2 fabric threads on 40ct linen. Size 7 x 6 inch (17 x 15 cm).
A cross stitch pattern by Couleur Tourterelle.
Chart info & Needlework supplies for the pattern:
Marie Joséphine Brayard 1856 Reproduction Sampler
Chart size in stitches: 138 x 117 (wide x high)
Needlework fabric: 40 ct Newcastle linen from Zweigart
Stitches: cross stitch,
Chart: Color and B&W
Threads: Gentle Art Sampler Thread (or DMC)
Number of colors: 1
Themes: France, mid-19th century, needlework learning and practice, cross stitch letters, alphabet & numbers
