Rare Piece Of Bristol History Goes Under The Hammer

Rare Sampler Made By Bristol Orphan In 1901 Set To Sell For Thousands At Auction

We are delighted to announce the sale of a rare and historically significant Victorian needlework sampler from the world-renowned George Müller New Orphan Homes of Ashley Down, Bristol. This exceptional piece of textile history will be featured in Day Two our Fine Art & Antiques Auction held at our Bath saleroom on February 24, 2026.

The sampler offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of the thousands of children cared for by George Müller, a Prussian-born minister who revolutionized social care in the 19th century. Built entirely through unsolicited donations and prayer, Müller’s five large ‘New Orphan Houses’ provided a home, education, and future for over 10,000 children who would otherwise have faced the harsh conditions of the Victorian workhouse.

At the Müller homes, needlework was not merely a pastime but a vital part of a girl’s education.

‘It first came to our attention on a routine email,’ says auctioneer Annie Cope-Mew, ‘the Bristol samplers are so instantly recognisable, and we knew it was something special. They are rare, and highly sought after by collectors all over the world.’

Worked in vibrant red cotton thread on a cream linen ground, the particular style is unique to the Bristol Orphanages,

‘This isn’t just a piece of fabric, but a significant part of Bristol’s history,’ adds Annie. ‘The stories behind many of the young girls making these is heartbreaking. But this sampler is a representation of their hopes, their dreams and their futures. It was the ultimate CV, proving to a future employer that they had the necessary skills for domestic employment - the usual path for girls of sixteen to eighteen after leaving the orphanage.’

Kept by the same family for three generations, the rare sampler was discovered in a Bristol home. It carries a pre-sale estimate of £1,000 to £2,000 and goes under the hammer in Day Two of our ‘Fine Art & Antiques Auction,’ in Bath, on February 24^th. The full details can be found here.