Images(5)

Quilted Petticoat

Date1750-1770

Maker Unidentified Quaker Woman

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumSilk with wool batting and backing

DimensionsOH: 38 3/4 in.; OH (at center front): 35 in.; OW (flat): 54 1/4 in.; Circumference: 108 1/2 in.

Credit LineGift of Titi Halle in honor of Mary Doering

Object number2017-315

DescriptionThis is a woman’s full quilted petticoat constructed of turquoise blue silk satin lined with a plain weave blue glazed worsted. The petticoat is missing its waistband. The quilted design consists of a bold round vase with a pair of thick S-shaped handles perched on a mound. Symmetrically placed long-stemmed flowers (tulips, sunflowers, and pomegranate-type) arch from the vase. A scallop design is in the outer border. The quilt has an undyed wool batting and a plain weave silk and linen binding. A small amount of a silk ribbon hem binding is found on the front of the petticoat. It is quilted in 13 running stitches per inch.
Label TextQuilted petticoats were especially fashionable for informal daytime use. In addition to being beautiful and warm, they were stiff enough to add flare to full skirts.This stunning turquoise blue quilted petticoat has been identified as belonging to a group of quilted textiles produced in the Philadelphia area during the third quarter of the eighteenth century. The quilted pieces, which are associated with prominent Philadelphia Quaker families, illustrate a popular regional style and designer.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of Cora Ginsburg.
The original owner, who was probably Quaker, is not identified.