Eighteenth Century Sampler with English Song Texts

English sampler dated AD 1766 with references to two English hymns. English sampler dated AD 1766 with references to two English hymns. Courtesy Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, acc. no. BK-NM-11226.

The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam houses an English sampler worked by Mary Lane and dated 1766, which refers to two English eighteenth century songs, namely "Since all the downward tracts..." and "Since none can doubt...."  The sampler is made of linen with silk thread embroidery. It measures 41.5 x 35.5 cm.

Both songs are by the English clergyman and writer, James Hervey (1714-1758), Reflections from a Flower Garden (1746). The relevant passages, stitched into the sampler, are:


Since all the downward tracts of time
God’s watchful eye surveys,
O who so wise to choose our lot
And regulate our ways?

And:

Since none can doubt his equal love,
immeasurably kind:
To his unerring, gracious will,
Be every wish resign'd.

 

Rijksmuseum Amsterdam online catalogue (retrieved 9 November 2016).

WV

Last modified on Wednesday, 09 November 2016 21:23