Skip to main content
Advanced Search
2003-77,1, Woven Coverlet
Woven Overshot Coverlet, 1793
2003-77,1, Woven Coverlet

Woven Overshot Coverlet, 1793

Date1793
Owned by Cornelia Hollen Beck
OriginAmerica, New York
MediumLinen warp (two ply), cotton and wool wefts
DimensionsOH: 89"; OW: 72"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase, The Friends of Colonial Williamsburg Collections Fund
Object number2003-77,1
DescriptionThis is a rectangular overshot coverlet woven in a geometric design using indigo blue wool and white cotton wefts on a linen warp. The coverlet is woven in two panels and seamed down center. Selvages form the edge finishes and narrow rolled hems are at top and bottom. The inscription woven into corner reads, "C H B 1793".
Label TextAccording to family tradition, Cornelia Hollen Beck, who emigrated from Holland to New York, wove this bed coverlet before her marriage at age eighteen. Woven into the linen, woolen, and cotton coverlet is the date "1793" and the initials "CHB." The coverlet relates stylistically to a handful of eighteenth-century examples woven near Albany, New York, and may actually be the product of a professional weaver working in that area.

Markings"CHB 1793" woven into corner
ProvenanceAccording to the family this was owned and made by the great great great grandmother of the present-day donor on mother's side. An accompanying pillowcase was made by his step great great great grandmother on father's side. In more recent years, the coverlet was stored in the pillow case.