Counterpane, chintz palampore

Date1840-1860

MediumTabby-weave, mordant-painted and dyed "chintz"

Dimensions126 1/2" x 106 1/4".

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1957-93

DescriptionChintz bed counterpane or "palampore." Central motif consists of a cluster of verdant bamboo stalks rising from a stylized mound and flanked by two small flowering bushes. At the foot of the bamboo shoots are a hen at the left and a rooster at the right; a number of small birds or chicks are perched among the bamboo branches. Border consists of undulating arborescent bamboo-like vines rising from a rocky mound at each corner. Mordant-painted and dyed in red, brown, purple , blue, yellow and overpainted green on white cotton.
Label TextThis bed counterpane was painted in India for the Western market. Its flowering tree design bordered by floral elements bears evidence of a reciprocal influence between the East and the Western Markets. Although the English people craved the exoticism of Asian designs, they modified them for their own taste. Merchants began to send instructions East describing the colors and designs that would appeal to their Western customers.

Markings32 R. in ink on reverse near lower right corner.
ProvenancePurchased in 1957 from Thomas D. and Constance R. Williams of Litchfield, Connecticut.