Woven Tied Beiderwand Crib Coverlet

Dateca. 1850

MediumCotton warp and weft with wool supplementary weft

DimensionsOL: 41" with fringe; 38" without fringe OW: 41" with fringe; 36" without fringe

Credit LineBequest of Margaret H. (Mrs. Robert S.) Davies

Object number1975.609.7

DescriptionThis crib coverlet is a red, light blue, and cream single woven coverlet, which is made from one piece of woven fabric. The coverlet is woven in a tied beiderwand construction, which has cream and light blue cotton warp threads. The weft consists of cream cotton threads and red wool threads. These wool threads are tied in place by the light blue cotton warp threads. The center ground consists of two peahens in an elaborate floral motif. This central pattern is surrounded on three sides by a thin zigzag border. The coverlet has fringe on three sides. The fringe on the two long sides was woven on its own and then stitched to the piece, while the fringe on the short end was woven with the piece. The warp on this piece runs from long side to long side unlike its full size counterparts. The top edge is not a selvage edge; it has been cut and rolled under.
Label TextThe original function of such small-sized woven textiles is not always clear and may well vary from one piece to another. Some are said to have served as samples from which prospective clients could pick patterns for full-sized bedcovers. Others appear to have been woven for children’s beds. Some may have been created as table covers. Fringes and distinct borders on three sides of this piece suggest that it served as a crib-sized bedcover.
InscribedNo inscriptions
MarkingsMo marks
ProvenanceFrom the estate of Margaret H. Davies; ownership prior to the donor's is unknown.