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Woven Doublecloth Coverlet, "Eagle & Stars" by Unknown Maker
No image number on slide

Woven Doublecloth Coverlet, "Eagle & Stars" by Unknown Maker

Date1838
OriginAmerica, New York (possibly)
MediumDark blue wool and white cotton
DimensionsLength/Height: 84 1/2 w/o fringe; 85 1/2 with fringe; Width: 76" no fringe.
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Foster McCarl, Jr.
Object number1991.609.5
DescriptionThis is a double-woven, center-seamed coverlet in dark blue wool and white cotton with self-fringed bottom edge. The coverlet has no borders per se; side borders are distinguished from interior design only by wording (giving pattern name) and year date--"EAGLE & STARS 1838." Overall pattern, then, consists of four soldiers with uplifted swords on rearing horses, alternating with large eagles perched on branches and large fruit bowls, all against a background of flower and foliage designs.
Label TextThe dense, eccentric design of this coverlet features oversize vases, eagles, horsemen, and a profusion of flowers. The pattern name "Eagle & Stars" is puzzling to some. One can readily see the eagles, but where are the stars? The weaver's identity and location are unknown, although the absence of corner blocks and borders are characteristics of New York and Indiana coverlets.
InscribedWoven backwards and forwards repeatedly along both side edges is "EAGLE&STARS" and "1838"
MarkingsWoven backwards and forwards repeatedly along both side edges is "EAGLE&STARS" and "1838"
ProvenanceOwnership prior to AARFAM's donor is unknown.