A delightful small size Nova Scotia needlework sampler that reads "Elizabeth Mosher Her Work Aged 11" and with a date that looks to be "Sept. 1st 1827". The last number of the date is somewhat difficult to discern. This is a particularly appealing sampler, 1) because it is small, and 2) because it features a nautical motif that includes two sailing ships, each with two men aboard. Other stitched symbols include the tree of life, birds, and a large central flower basket. At the lower center is the Biblical verse "And What I say unto you I saw unto all. Watch." This is certainly an apropos verse for the ever-vigilant sailor spending time on the high seas. Interestingly, there are various pairs of initials stitched throughout the sampler, some of which are stitched in black, possibly representing family members who'd passed on or been lost at sea. This sampler was found here in Nova Scotia and is believed to be from the Moshers of the Newport, Nova Scotia area, which included a number of well-known shipbuilders and sailors. The sampler size is only 8.5" x 11" and the overall framed size is 12" x 14.5."

Dimensions: 12"x14.5"