This rare and educational silk sampler from Japan dates to the late Meiji or Taisho period (1890–1926). Measuring 14 inches by 18 inches (36 cm x 46 cm), the piece is meticulously rendered on a deep black silk ground, which provides a high-contrast backdrop for the various needlework demonstrations. The sampler features twenty-four distinct embroidered motifs, each accompanied by its corresponding name in hand-painted Japanese calligraphy.

The motifs demonstrate a vast catalog of Japanese embroidery techniques, ranging from floral and botanical representations—such as maple leaves, cherry blossoms, and pinks—to geometric patterns and symbolic objects like an anchor and a bird. Technical styles on display include heavy couching with gold and silver threads, delicate satin stitching, French knots, and specialized lattice-work. This piece likely served as a reference for an advanced student or a professional workshop, preserving the diverse stitch vocabulary of the early 20th century. The sampler is in excellent condition.

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