Welsh wonder
I bought this sampler for £10 in a charity shop. It is dated 1871, and I think the Welsh translates as ‘Without interest, without anything’. More often you would see ‘Heb Dduw, heb ddim’ (without God, without anything). To me it's just a lovely piece, but I'd love to hear an expert's view.
Aylie Cooke
This sampler is ever so charming. These small examples in brightly coloured wool are quite common, almost always made by young girls between the ages of six and 14 while at school. Interestingly, this example is dated before the Universal Education Act was introduced in 1876, meaning the stitcher was likely at schoolread ‘Heb Dduw, heb ddim’ or ‘Without God, without anything’. These samplers are hugely collectable and this is a great piece for a new collector or someone just appreciating its colourful appeal. Similar pieces can be found for £15-£40.
