M Finkel & Daughter

At M. Finkel & Daughter, we are proud to be America's leading dealer in the field of antique samplers and needlework. For over seven decades, our family-owned business has been dedicated to the preservation, research, and sale of exquisite, historically significant pieces of art and craftsmanship. We are deeply committed to the academic field of schoolgirl needlework, which spans the 18th and early 19th centuries, and provides a fascinating window into the history of young girls, their families, schools, and the broader cultural traditions of their time.

Our journey began in November 1947 when Morris Finkel opened an antiques store on Pine Street in Philadelphia, continuing a family tradition in the antiques trade. The store was located in a historic antiques district, and it was the perfect location for a business selling period antiques. The business has remained in the same building, now filled with an internationally acclaimed selection of antique samplers, needlework, and silk embroideries from the 17th through the mid-19th centuries.

In 1975, Morris' daughter, Amy Finkel, joined him, making this business a true family venture. Shortly thereafter, the name of the business was changed to "M. Finkel & Daughter", reflecting the identity of the two business partners. The father/daughter team combined an interest in antique furniture with the world of historic samplers and needlework. Amy has lectured, written, and consulted widely and is well respected for her scholarly approach within this academic field.

We have worked with private clients, with major museums, and with historical societies to form some of the most important collections in America. We also regularly bid at auctions on behalf of private clients and museums. Our firm was a founding member of Antiques Dealers' Association of America, Inc., an invitation-only, non-profit trade association founded in 1984 to promote high standards, educational programs, and professionalism within the antiques business.

Current Selection of Antique Samplers and Silk Embroideries

We are constantly updating our inventory with new and exciting pieces of antique samplers and silk embroideries. These pieces offer a unique glimpse into the history of young girls, their families, and the broader cultural traditions of their time. Each piece is meticulously researched and documented, providing valuable insights into the genealogy of the families and the history of the schools and towns where they were created.

Conservation Mounting and Framing

At M. Finkel & Daughter, we take great care in the conservation mounting and framing of our antique samplers. We conduct this work in-house under Amy's supervision, using techniques and materials that closely follow the original ones. When samplers remain in their original frames, they always are mounted to remain in these frames. As samplers are often no longer in their original frames, our excellent cabinetmaker, who has been with the firm for over 25 years, makes frames that are correct to the period and to the geographic region. Frames made for M. Finkel & Daughter's samplers have gained much recognition over the years.

Archive of Past Sales

We have an extensive archive of past sales, which includes detailed information and images of each piece. This archive is a valuable resource for collectors, scholars, and curators, providing a comprehensive overview of the types of antique samplers and silk embroideries that have been sold through our business over the years.

How to Buy and Sell

At M. Finkel & Daughter, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of service and expertise. Whether you are looking to purchase an antique sampler or silk embroidery, or sell a piece from your collection, we are here to guide you through the process. Our team is committed to ensuring that every transaction is smooth, efficient, and satisfying for all parties involved.

Resources and FAQs

We have compiled a comprehensive list of resources and FAQs for our clients, including information on the history of samplers, how to care for your antique samplers, and answers to common questions about buying and selling antique samplers and silk embroideries. This section of our website is designed to provide our clients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their purchases and sales.

Media and Press

M. Finkel & Daughter has been featured in numerous publications and media outlets over the years, including The New York Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Antiques and the Arts Weekly. We are always happy to provide interviews and information to the press and media, and we are committed to promoting the field of antique samplers and needlework.