Found in Maine, but Pennsylvania German, 19th century I believe, though in a newer frame. Happily, a previous owner of this did the work of researching it, and adhered to the back of the frame is a handwritten note translating the meaning of the central element--a series of letters, OEHBDDE, surrounding a planted heart--and there is some additional reference material discussing the history and use of the motif as well. The OEHBDDE is an acrostic, with each letter the first letter in a German phrase, which translates to "Oh Noble Heart Think of Your End." I believe, the monogram of the maker is likely incorporated into the heart tree as well, perhaps the TT. And then additional elements to either side including very sweet single six petal flower at lower right, which looks to me a mix of hopeful and lonely! Charming and also rather melancholic.
Framed as found, under glass, in a vintage Pennsylvania-style painted solid wood frame wired for hanging. Frame: 15" x 10 7/8". Sampler: 12 1/2" x 8". Some staining/toning to the cloth as evident and just a few lost stitches to the heart shape at upper left corner.
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