Images(2)

Blanket, Blue and White Embroidered

Date1800-1830

OriginAmerica

MediumWool (fiber identification by microscope)

DimensionsW: 74" L: 90" excluding 1 3/4" fringe

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1991-135

DescriptionThis is a rectangular blanket of white wool twill woven with double lines of dark indigo blue crossing to form 8 X 9-inch windowpane checks. The inside of each check is embroidered with dark blue wool in abstracted baskets bearing sprigs alternating with crossed sprigs. A wide border on three sides has crossed pairs of sprigs. The blanket is finished with individually tied fringes on three sides and a narrow rolled hem across the top. The blanket is woven in two panels, butted and stitched down the center. The embroidery stitches consist primarily of stem, cross, satin, and couching. There are scattered holes and mended areas.
Label TextChecked single-layer blankets embroidered with colorful wool threads were popular bed coverings from the late eighteenth century through to the middle of the nineteenth century. In this example, indigo blue flower baskets and sprigs fill each individual space created by the blue woven windowpane checks.
ProvenanceKen Colwell, "The Looms," Mineral Point, Wisconsin.