Woven Doublecloth Coverlet

Date1843 (dated)

MediumWarp: Cotton and Wool; Weft: Cotton and Wool

DimensionsOL: 97" OW: 81"

Credit LineGift of Charles and Dordy Freeman

Object number2001.609.1

DescriptionThis indigo and off-white rectangular coverlet is woven in the doublecloth technique. This cover is woven in two panels that are hand-stitched together to form a center seam. The two long sides are selvage edges while the short ends have the two layers of double-cloth turned to the inside and stitched. The coverlet has no fringe. The coverlet has a large oval medallion in the center which measures approximately 40 x 48 inches in size. The medallion contains lilies, vases, leaves, pointed ovals, and is filled in with motifs. The field around the central medallion has scattered floral sprigs which fill the space between the center medallion and the borders. The inner border is ten inches wide and features pomegranates in vases filled with flowers and scrolling leaves; the vases are positioned in each corner and centered along each edge. A narrow 3 1/2- inch wide outer border has stylized pineapples and flowers. This border also has the date "1843" woven in each corner.
The weaver is unidentified.
Markings"1843"
ProvenanceAccording to donors, the coverlet was a gift to Mr. Charles Freeman's mother by a widow woman. It was thought to be made in upper New York State.

The weaver of the coverlet is unidentified.