Doublecloth Woven Coverlet Fragments

Date19th century

MediumWool

DimensionsOverall (1 H x W): 23 x 31in. (58.4 x 78.7cm) Overall (2 H x W): 8 3/4 x 87in. (22.2 x 221cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1996.609.7,1&2

DescriptionThese rectangular fragments are from a blue and white doublecloth coverlet. The pattern, called “Snowball,” consist of overlapping circles with large dots in the center and four smaller dots around it. Fragment 1 is rectangle with clipped corner. All edges are unfinished. Fragment 2 is a narrower rectangle. The long edges are unfinished. One short end is held in a tape hem that is folded over further and whip stitched. The other edge is finished in a flat hem with applied fringe.
Label TextThese two fragments are cut from the same coverlet in a pattern known as Snowball. The pattern is created through the technique of double cloth: two separate structures are woven on the same loom at the same time and the pattern emerges when the structures change place. In this example, one structure is blue and the other is white, and the color you see depends on which is on top. By using two complete structures, pockets are formed between layers; this not only allows the coverlet to be decorative, it also creates more insulation.
MarkingsNo marks or inscriptions.
ProvenanceBoth pieces have been in the AARFAC collection for many years but were never accessioned. No information can be found relating to the source, or year of acquisition.