Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Antique Samplers & Needlework Experts in Philadelphia
M Finkel & Daughter has been a trusted name in the antiques trade since 1947, founded by Morris Finkel in Philadelphias historic Pine Street district. Our expertise lies in curating and authenticating antique samplers, needlework, and silk embroideries from the 17th to mid-19th centuries, alongside an extensive collection of 18th- and 19th-century furniture. Amy Finkel, daughter of the founder, joined in 1975, bringing scholarly depth to our operations and establishing us as leaders in the academic study of historic needlework.We serve private collectors, museums, and historical societies globally, offering expert consultation, authentication, and personalized service. Our inventory is meticulously maintained, with pieces guaranteed authentic and accompanied by detailed provenance. We publish the renowned Samplings catalog, host exhibitions, and provide educational resources to foster appreciation for this art form. Our commitment to quality, transparency, and client satisfaction has solidified our reputation as a respected authority in the field.
Services
Antique Samplers
Needlework
Silk Embroideries
Antique Furniture
Decorative Objects
Details
- Year established: 1947
Highlights and features
- We combine 75+ years of family expertise in antique authentication and scholarship.
- Our inventory includes internationally acclaimed samplers and needlework from 17th19th centuries.
- We offer expert packing and insured global shipping for all purchases.
- Our Samplings catalog provides unparalleled educational resources for collectors.
- We prioritize transparency in provenance, condition, and pricing for every piece.
Associations and certifications
- Antiques Dealers' Association of America
- New Hampshire Antiques Dealers Association
Services
Antique Samplers
We specialize in authentic 17th19th-century samplers, meticulously curated for collectors and institutions. Each piece is verified for origin, condition, and historical significance. Our inventory includes rare American, English, and European examples, accompanied by detailed provenance and scholarly research.
Needlework Authentication
Our team provides authoritative authentication services for samplers and needlework, leveraging decades of academic and market expertise. We assess materials, stitching techniques, and historical context to verify authenticity and origin.
Antique Furniture
We offer 18th19th-century furniture pieces, including rare American and European antiques. Each item is carefully restored and documented, complementing our needlework collections for discerning collectors.
Educational Resources
Our Samplings catalog and online archives provide in-depth studies, exhibitions, and lectures on historic needlework. These resources support academic research and collector education globally.
Global Shipping
We ensure secure, insured shipping worldwide for all purchases. Our team coordinates packing and logistics to guarantee safe delivery of fragile and valuable items.
People
Morris Finkel
Founder
Morris Finkel established the business in 1947, building on family antiques expertise. His vision positioned Philadelphias Pine Street as a hub for historic samplers and period furniture.
Amy Finkel
Curator & Partner
Amy Finkel joined the business in 1975, contributing scholarly research and curatorial expertise. She lectures widely and has shaped the firms reputation in academic and collector circles.
Questions
How do you determine the origin of a sampler?
We analyze visual clues like color palettes, motifs, and regional stitching patterns to identify a sampler’s origin.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept checks, credit cards, wire transfers, and PayPal for all purchases.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, we provide insured shipping worldwide with costs quoted individually for each item.
Can you authenticate a sampler I own?
We evaluate authenticity through physical examination, historical research, and material analysis.
Do you buy antique samplers?
Yes, we purchase samplers outright or act as brokers for private collections and estates.