Images(2)

Hooked Rug

Dateca. 1860

Maker Unidentified

OriginAmerica, New England

MediumWool on jute

DimensionsOverall: 25 3/8 × 37 1/4in. (64.5 × 94.6cm)

Credit LineGift of Cynthia Smesny Norwood

Object number2022.609.11

DescriptionThis is small rectangular hooked rug worked in fine cut, approximately modern #3 cut, wool strips on a jute ground. The design consists of a floral spray of red roses, blue and yellow flowers, and buds in the center with scrolling stylized leaves encircling the spray. At each corner is a small spray consisting of a red rose and leaves. The background, hooked in several shades of brown, cream, and dull green, outlines the outer edge of the leaf scroll. The outer border consists of two rows of brown. The colors are shades of red, pink, yellow, rust, brown, tan, green, blue, and purple. The replacement binding is a twill-weave commercial tape that is machine stitched to the edge.
Label TextEarly hooked rugs were originally created by rural housewives for use as floorcoverings and a way to add color, pattern, and warmth to their country homes. Hooked rugs are created by pulling loops of yarn or fabric strips through a woven ground fabric such as linen, burlap, or cotton. A crochet-type hook mounted in a handle is used to pull the loops from the underside of the ground fabric to the surface. The widths of the fabric strips can vary and the created looped pile can be left uncut or cut. This small rug is worked in fine cut, approximately modern #3 cut, wool strips on a jute ground. Floral arrangements and wreaths were a popular design.
ProvenanceNo known provenance