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Polychrome, cross stitched wool sampler. A verse and the authors name and date is stitched down the centre of the plain weave base fabric. A branch/rose design borders the verse and there are symbols along the bottom edge; including baskets of flowers and tree type motifs.

WOOLLEN CANVAS, embroidered with coloured silks in cross stitch. The verse:

"The Vanity of Greatness The glories of our birth and state Are shadows not substantial things There is no armour against fate. Death lays his icy hand on Kings Sceptre and crown Must humble (sic) down And in the dust be equal made With the poor crooked scythe and spade All heads must come To the cold tomb Only the actions of the just Smell sweet and blossom in the dust."

The space around is filled with detached floral, heart and crown designs and the inscription: "Eliza / Williams aged 10 / years / 1839". There is a border of a floral wavy stem. Worked by donor's mother.

Source: Guide to the Collection of Samplers & Embroideries (Cardiff: National Museum of Wales, 1939) by F.G. Payne.