29th Nov 2023
Early American sampler heads home
On Thursday 23rd November Busby held their Autumn fine art sale at their auction house in The Old Hemp Store, North Mills, Bridport. The sale attracted over 200 buyers, both private and trade, with a particular item having piqued the interest of American bidders. The item in question was lot 319, ‘A rare American early 18th century needlework alphabet sampler worked by Abigail White of Massachusetts…in the fifteen year of her age’, which created such a stir that the needlework exceeded its conservative estimate of £600-800 and achieved £7250 inc. buyer’s premium. The reason why this sampler in particular attracted such interest is that it was dated 1738- making it pre-date the 1776 United States Declaration of Independence by 38 years. Other than being exceptionally early, the sampler is charming with its depictions of white doves, striped flower pots and a fruit bearing tree—and unsurprisingly the sampler is making its way back home to America. Busby is now accepting entries for their March 2024 Spring Fine Art sale, and will be holding its next general auction on Thursday, December 14th.
