Quilt, Silk Embroidered

Date1720-1750

MediumSilk needlework; cotton face, batting, and backing with new support lining (fiber identification by microscope)

DimensionsOW: 93"; OH: 94"; Cut-outs at corners: 18"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1968-766

DescriptionThis is a bed quilt embroidered with silks in a pattern of multicolor floral motifs against a background design of very pale yellow backstitch quilting in repeated scallops that enclose fanlike petals. In the center is a large leaf-encircled medallion with asymmetrical flowering plants growing from an openwork basket. Eight naturalistic asymmetrical flower bouquets tied with ribbons grow in toward the center medallion from the corners and sides of the center field. The narrow inner borders on all four sides consist of a linear scrolling floral meander. Four rectangular extensions were stitched to the small original quilt to enlarge it. The extensions appear to be reused valances from matching bed hangings. The extensions feature asymmetrical floral bouquets tied with ribbons. The outer border on three of the four extensions is the same narrow scrolling floral meander as the inner borders. The embroidery, worked primarily in satin-stitch, is done with twisted silks in shades of pink to red, mauve to lavender, browns, pale blue to dark blue, ivory to golden yellow, and shaded yellow greens. The needlework is stitched through the fine cotton top, very thin cotton batting, and coarse cotton backing. Areas of the original ink drawing are visible. The quilt and extensions were originally bound with pale green silk tape, some of which survives. The quilt is now lined with modern conservation backing.
Label TextSpaced around the magnificent central basket of flowers are a profusion of delicately colored flower bouquets growing from the borders and field of this professionally embroidered quilt. To enhance the rich effect, the entire ground is further embellished with ivory silk backstitch quilting. The original small square quilt was later enlarged by adding repurposed valances from a matching set of bed hangings.
ProvenanceMayorcas Limited, London; quilt said to be English.