Woven Doublecloth Coverlet

Date1822

Artist/Maker James Alexander (1770-1870)

OriginAmerica, New York, Orange County, Little Britain

MediumDark blue wool and white cotton

DimensionsWidth: 79 1/4" no fringe. Length/Height: 95 1/4"

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Foster McCarl, Jr.

Object number1978.609.5

DescriptionThis is a doublecloth woven coverlet with a center-seam. The main design is composed of six large floral medallions alternating with florets. Side borders are 12" wide with a repeating pattern of a building flanked by spread- winged eagles and pine trees, topped with a shower of stars. Top and bottom borders are a repeating pattern of spread-winged eagles, alternating with pine trees, and pillars topped by Masonic symbols. Corner blocks are woven with a name and date as follows: "RACHEL/FOSDICK/DEC.14./1822".
Label TextThis unsigned coverlet is identified as the work of James Alexander based on his extant account book, which names most of his clients including Rachel Fosdick. Alexander's centerfields have characteristic small ovals positioned where the large medallions touch. Masonic elements combine with patriotic eagles and tower like buildings. Typical of Alexander's work, the eagles in the bottom border are more stylized than those on the side borders.
InscribedWoven into each of the four corner blocks is "RACHEL/FOSDICK/DEC.14./1822."
MarkingsWoven into the four corner blocks: "RACHEL/FOSDICK/DEC.14./1822"
ProvenanceOwnership prior to the donor's is unknown.