Montacute House is Somerset has an exhibition of some of the 300 samplers collected by Doctor Douglas Goodhart since the 1950’s. The good doctor gathered together an internationally important collection, dating back to the 16th century.
I visited Montacute for one of my birthmonth days out last weekend, not knowing they were there. Had I known I might just have taken a tripod, because flash photography was not allowed, hence the quality of these photos is disappointing, but you can get an idea of how beautiful they are.
As some of you know I love mermaids, and I’m not the only one here, so this is my favourite.
And this last one is so precious, see the date?
I think it fits the bill for pure.
Lucid Gypsy 
How beautiful. I have some tablecloths that my mother embroidered as a young woman, but all I remember doing is a rather boring cross stitch tray cloth at school. I did go through a phase of flowers later on. The old samplers are a delight and I love your mermaid 🙂
Wow, it looks fascinating!! x
Gorgeous samplers and wonderful photos. They are, Gilly. I have enjoyed seeing them. Thank you. 🙂 ❤
Lovely samplers, Gilly! Pure indeed
What a charming letter to her aunt. I ‘m sure she shed a tear when she received it. Gorgeous needlework. I love your saucy mermaid. 🙂
Oh that is just divine! What a treasure ..
Love these – especially that last one, which is so sweet!
Still looks great with this post too 🙂 I bet you spent ages with your nose pressed up. They’re gorgeous!
These are so touching, and in every way imaginable. But that mermaid – what a cracker – a real Mami Wata.
Isn’t she just!
This is gorgeous works of art. The letter to the aunt is so poignant she says she is looking forward to when she can write so Mother must’ve drawn out the message for her to work over. It would take so long, and how neat it is. Todays youngsters do not even send letters or cards of thanks. The world has changed so much since 1785
Love the samplers and remember many at the Goodhart family home, Dr Goodhart is my late father-in-law…..the mermaid is one of my favourites as well. .Linda Goodhart
Hi Linda, thank you for visiting and commenting, it’s wonderful to hear from someone with a connection to this body of work, It’s quite something isn’t it? I hope it continues to be preserved and displayed for future generations to enjoy. Best wishes, Gilly.