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1955-479, Quilt
Quilted Cover, Block-Printed Cotton
1955-479, Quilt

Quilted Cover, Block-Printed Cotton

Date1775-1800
MediumCotton face; linen backing (fiber identification by microscope).
DimensionsFabric: 120"; L: 103"; Fabric Width: (selvage to selvage): 28"; Technical: 28 weft/inch: 44 warps/inch.
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1955-479
DescriptionThis is a quilted covering shaped to fit a bed similar to a case cover. The coarse cotton face fabric is block printed in reds and browns, some faded, in a lattice design of diagonally crossing lacy bands. Inside each diamond formed by the crossing bands is a single peony. The ground is speckled with small brown dots. The backing for the quilt is tabby woven linen. The quilting is done with 5 running stitches per inch in diagonal rows forming a diamond pattern. Thick cotton is used as the batting. The edges are turned inward and stitched. The condition is worn with some holes.
Label TextThis quilted cover is shaped to fit over a mattress and hang down to the floor, serving as a case or "slipcover" for the bed. The block-printed textile was probably printed in France in the late eighteenth century.
ProvenanceAmy Pleadwell, Boston, Massachusetts, by sale to Colonial Williamsburg, 1955.