In stock · No. group 80
"
RARE FOLK ART LION SAMPLER POSTCARD - SHELBURNE MUSEUM - EXCEPTIONAL 1830s NEW ENGLAND NEEDLEWORK
DESCRIPTIONThis captivating postcard features a pristine reproduction of a truly extraordinary early American needlework treasure. Published by the renowned Shelburne Museum in 1986 it showcases an exceptionally rare pictorial sampler from circa 1830-1840 featuring a stately lion beneath a stylized tree.
The exquisite details of this remarkable folk art textile are beautifully preserved in this museum-quality reproduction. Featuring a striking border of repeating floral and leaf motifs surrounding the central lion motif the sampler exemplifies the highest level of early 19th century American needlework artistry.
The muted palette of greens browns and subtle hints of red against the natural linen background captures the authentic aesthetic of period needlework. Small decorative elements including stars flowers and other motifs are thoughtfully scattered throughout the composition creating a harmonious and visually captivating piece of American folk art.
Each time you look at this remarkable image you'll discover new details in the intricate stitchwork that tells the story of a young woman's artistic expression nearly two centuries ago. The Shelburne Museum specifically notes that pictorial samplers of this caliber are 'quite rare' - making this an exceptional example of early American textile artistry.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCESamplers like this one represent a precious window into early American cultural history and women's education. Created during the 1830-1840 period in New England this lion sampler stands as a testament to the artistic training and domestic skills valued in young women's education nearly two centuries ago.
Unlike the more common alphabetic or verse samplers this pictorial example featuring a lion motif demonstrates exceptional artistry and imagination. The Shelburne Museum one of America's preeminent institutions for folk art and Americana specifically notes on the reverse that 'pictorial samplers such as this one are quite rare.'
The lion motif itself carries special significance in early American decorative arts often symbolizing courage nobility and protection. This remarkable needlework sampler connects us directly to the aspirations values and creative expression of early 19th century American society.
The Shelburne Museum's world-class collection represents the finest assemblage of American folk art and decorative arts making their holdings of early textiles particularly significant to collectors and historians. This postcard provides remarkable access to a museum treasure that most people would never have the opportunity to see in person.
CONDITIONThis postcard remains in very good vintage condition after nearly four decades. The colors retain their vibrancy with the subtle earthy tones of the original sampler beautifully reproduced on quality card stock.
The card shows only light overall toning/yellowing consistent with its age of 37 years. There are no significant creases tears or damage that would detract from its display or collectible value.
Minor edge and corner wear is present but minimal and the printed text on the reverse remains clear and fully legible. A small amount of soiling or smudging is visible on the left side of the reverse and a few minor surface scratches can be seen on the right side.
Finding museum postcards from the 1980s in this state of preservation is becoming increasingly difficult as these ephemeral items naturally deteriorate over time or disappear into permanent collections. This example has clearly been thoughtfully preserved by previous owners.
AGE/ERAThis postcard was published in 1986 by the Shelburne Museum in Vermont as clearly indicated by the copyright information on the reverse. While now approaching 40 years old it faithfully reproduces an American textile treasure from the 1830-1840 period.
The card features the item number 0-486-30330-6 and descriptive text noting: 'Sampler cotton. Maker unknown probably New England ca. 1830-40. Pictorial samplers such as this one are quite rare.' This valuable provenance information adds significantly to the card's historical context.
Museum postcards from the 1980s have now crossed the threshold into collectibility themselves particularly those featuring important artifacts from prestigious institutions. The Shelburne Museum's reputation as a premier repository of American folk art makes their vintage publications especially desirable.
The card's design printing quality and paper stock are all consistent with museum publications of the mid-1980s representing the high standards of that era's museum merchandising. As these cards approach the half-century mark they increasingly serve as historical documents in their own right.
RARITYWhile museum postcards are generally produced in limited quantities compared to commercial postcards this example is particularly special for several reasons.
The Shelburne Museum specifically notes on the card that pictorial samplers like this one are 'quite rare ' underscoring the significance of the original artifact.
Lion motifs in early American samplers are considerably less common than other designs making this a particularly noteworthy example. Shelburne Museum publications from the 1980s have a dedicated collector base but are becoming increasingly difficult to find in good condition.
As interest in American folk art continues to grow vintage documentation of these important textile treasures becomes more valuable to collectors and researchers.
With each passing year fewer of these museum postcards remain available on the open market as they enter permanent collections or succumb to damage and disposal.
For collectors of early American textiles folk art or museum ephemera this postcard offers an accessible way to own a representation of a museum-quality sampler that would be valued in the thousands of dollars in its original form.
COLLECTOR'S NOTEThere is a unique joy in holding a tangible connection to America's rich textile heritage. This postcard bridges multiple collecting interests - early American needlework folk art museum publications and textile history - making it an exceptionally versatile addition to various collections.
Whether displayed in a frame alongside other folk art images kept in an album of textile ephemera or used as a reference for your own needlework projects this card offers remarkable historical and artistic value. The card's detailed reverse provides valuable provenance information that enhances its educational significance.
Folk art and early American decorative arts continue to captivate collectors with their authentic expression of our national artistic heritage. As museum budgets tighten and publication programs diminish vintage museum postcards like this one become increasingly important as accessible documentation of important artifacts.
This postcard allows you to bring a piece of the prestigious Shelburne Museum collection into your home at a fraction of the cost of original folk art. It represents not just a beautiful image but a connection to the remarkable artistic achievements of early American women.
SHIPPING NOTEBuy multiple postcards and pay only ONE low shipping cost! I'm happy to combine shipping on any number of postcards to save you money. This item will be carefully packaged in an archival sleeve and shipped between rigid cardboard to ensure it arrives safely.
DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY!Museum postcards featuring rare and significant artifacts continue to disappear into permanent collections. This exceptional reproduction of an early American lion sampler from the prestigious Shelburne Museum represents both America's textile heritage and the golden age of museum publishing.
Secure this beautiful piece of American folk art history for your collection today! When it's gone finding another example of this rare pictorial sampler may prove impossible."
_gsrx_vers_1715 (GS 9.9.2 (1715))
Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.
Gosla Antiques & Collectibles