Description
An unusual and charming English Sampler stitched during the reign of George III, depicting a large central motif of a bee skep surrounded by flowers, bees, butterflies and two large doves set within leafy arbours together with a cottage in a pastoral scene. All are contained within a stunning border with several varieties of flowers including roses and carnations.
The relationship between bee keeping and gardens is centuries old. Bees were a valuable asset to villagers, besides being a medicine, honey and beeswax were used in many ways: making mead; as a sweetener; Curing and preserving food. Beeswax was used for candles and waterproofing clothing. Tithes and rents were sometimes paid in honey, beeswax or swarms of bees.
After an intense search we have found three possible Mary Ann Bournes in our time frame, all lived in Kent which is also known as the Garden County. It is a beautiful part of England with fields of Hops which are used in the making of beer and there are wonderful Oast Houses where the hops are hung to dry.
Stitch count is 333 w x 386h
Please leave a note on your order if you would like us to kit fabric or threads for you
