Bittersweet House Folk Art American Heritage Sampler Santa Inspired by Catharine Ringwall, 1831 Cat# S615 Click on images for larger view In the 19th century, young girls displayed their skill and patience through the creation of needlework samplers. This Santa is a tribute to that quiet, domestic artistry. Handcrafted by artist Kathryn Campbell, this unique Belsnickle is **inspired by an 1831 sampler made by 13-year-old Catharine Ringwall.** The intricate, cross-stitch style motifs are hand-painted onto a figure cast from a **rare antique chocolate mold manufactured by Jaburg of New York.** **The Artistry:** Cast from a rare antique chocolate mold by Jaburg Bros. of New York, this figure celebrates the golden age of American confectionery art and the enduring beauty of early New England textiles. The design captures the nostalgic charm of the early 19th century, blending the crisp lines of American metal molds with the soft, storied tradition of New England textiles. Every "stitch" of the floral and geometric border is meticulously hand-painted to honor the original sampler. Of special note: Each piece is hand-cast in chalkware, hand-painted in a vintage palette, antiqued, numbered, dated, and signed. See more unique items from Bittersweet House Folk Art featured in Wendy Mullen's new book "The Comprehensive Guide to Chocolate Molds: Objects of Art & Artists' Tools"