Pieced Bolster Cover
Dateca. 1840
MediumPrinted cotton
DimensionsOH: 17 1/2 in. x OW: 52 in.
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2018.609.5
DescriptionThis is a rectangular bolster cover of pieced cottons and printed patchwork. The pattern consists of nine patch blocks of small printed designs alternating with one patch blocks of larger florals and printed patchwork. The bolster cover has seams at sides and one end. The open end is hand-hemmed in a 1/8" hem. It is backed with a brown and green floral printed cotton.Label TextPieced in a pattern known as nine patch, this bolster cover contrasts printed cottons with building blocks of three rows of three squares each. The long, narrow size of this cover indicates that it was used for a bolster, not a simple pillow. Bolster covers from the nineteenth century seldom survive, so this is a rare example that demonstrates how important and popular quilting was for creating and decorating a wide variety of domestic furnishings.
InscribedNone
MarkingsNone
ProvenanceEx. Collection: Pat Nickols; purchased in Pennsylvania by former owner.
1835-1850
ca. 1880
ca. 1880
1790-1815
Probably 1880-1910
ca. 1850
