Quilt Fragment, Blue Worsted Wholecloth

Date1740-1790

MediumWool

DimensionsOverall (L x W): 93 x 82 in. (236.2 x 208.3cm) Other (Selvedge width of face fabric): 29 in. (73.7cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1957-13

DescriptionThis rectangular, dark blue quilt is made of twill-woven glazed wool on the face and backed with mustard-gold plain-woven wool. The wool running-stitched quilting pattern shows large undulating vines growing from the center bottom. Out of the vines grow large leaves, flowers, and fruit palmettes. The ground quilting is parallel diagonal lines. The edges are bordered with repeated wave-like gadroon motifs, similar to half "feather plumes" that are mirrored at top and bottom borders. The quilt has been cut down along the left edge, removing the border. The edges are finished by turning the top and backing in toward each other and stitching close to the edge in a running stitch.
ProvenancePurchased from Florene Maine, Ridgefield, Connecticut, 1957.