An unusual needlework sampler of a trout, stitched by a 10-year-old Cornish girl around 1840, is expected to make £1,200-£1,500 when it goes under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers in Penzance this month <Sept 26>.
While most samplers of the period feature the alphabet, religious verses, or scenes like Adam and Eve, this work showcases a large, finely detailed fish.
It was work of schoolgirl Phillipa Venning, born in 1830 in the rural village of Altarnun, west of Launceston and bears the stitched inscription: “Phillipa Venning worked at S. Bartlett’s school Altarnun.”
Phillipa likely completed the sampler around the age of 10 when most girls left formal education with tapestry offering a rare glimpse into the life of a Victorian schoolgirl.
Charles Hanson, owner of Derby-based Hansons Auctioneers, said: ““This is a beautiful and highly unusual piece of needlework. To see a fish, rather than the more common religious or moral themes is rare in samplers of this era.
“Phillipa’s work gives us a glimpse into both her world and her individuality. It’s a poignant, quietly powerful object that deserves to be preserved. I’m especially excited to see it return to its home county to be auctioned here in Cornwall, where it belongs. It’s not just a sampler—it’s an important piece of Cornish folk art.”
It is thought Phillipa, the daughter of a farmer, was inspired by the trout stream running through her home village.
Surrounding the fish is a rich array of symbols: stylised botanical motifs, a vivid red coral sprig, dragonflies and a pigeon perched on a branch. The carefully arranged trees and floral patterns reflect the natural world of rural Cornwall that would have shaped Phillipa’s daily life.
She never had children, and at the age of 43 married a widower—tragically passing away just three months later. She is buried in St Clether churchyard, a quiet resting place not far from where she grew up.
Auction Details
Auction: Cornwall September Antiques sale including Silver, Jewellery and Watches with Asian, Islamic and Rugs
Auction date: 26th September 2025 | 10am
Location: Hansons Cornwall Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
