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1980.609.2, Quilt
Quilt, Pieced Amish Sunshine and Shadow
1980.609.2, Quilt

Quilt, Pieced Amish Sunshine and Shadow

Date1935-1955
OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Lancaster (probably)
MediumTwill-woven wool; twill and plain weave cottons and wools; rayon crepe.
DimensionsOH: 78" X OW: 79" (198.1 cm. x 200.7 cm.)
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1980.609.2
DescriptionAlmost-square quilt pieced in the pattern usually called "Sunshine and Shadow." The inner field is comprised of small squares set in concentric rows to create a pieced diamond-on-point design that alternates dark with light and bright colors. The inner narrow border consists of a strip of brick-red textile, and wide outer border is dark green twill-woven textile. The quilting patterns consist of a grid over the small squares of the center field, 6-petal flowers in the narrow red border, and baskets and hearts in the wide outer border. Edge finish consists of 1 1/4-inch binding of dull blue-grey. Backing of dark blue cotton. Quilting thread is dark brown cotton.
Label TextAmish Sunshine and Shadow Quilt; maker unknown; attributed to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; 1900-1920; wools, wool and cotton blends, and cottons; 78" x 79"; 1980.609.2.

In this quilt small squares of bright and dark solid fabrics are sewn together by color to form concentric rings of diamonds creating a light and dark effect known as the Sunshine and Shadow pattern. The small squares of fabric, possibly scraps left over from other sewing projects, suggest the principals of simplicity and frugality often associated with the Amish. Traditionally, Sunshine and Shadow quilts have wide borders embellished with quilted motifs. Twenty charming baskets of flowers alternating with twenty-four hearts are hand stitched in the outer border of this quilt.
ProvenancePurchased from Stella Rubin.