Hooked Rug

Date1875-1900

OriginAmerica, Mid-Atlantic or New England (probably)

MediumWool and cotton on jute burlap grounds

Dimensions97 3/4 X 26 inches

Credit LineBequest of Mrs. Jason R. (Grace H.) Westerfield

Object number1977.611.1

DescriptionThis is a strip hooked rug in a pattern of interlacing circles and multicolored stripes. The rug shows extreme wear and appears to have been cut down from a larger size. At an unknown date prior to acquisition, a jute burlap backing was added beneath the primary support of burlap. The present binding probably was added at the same time.
Label TextAn ingrain carpet design or a quilting pattern may have inspired the basic format of interlocking ovals in this pleasing runner, which was once part of a larger rug. The floral repeats against their plain dark backgrounds contrast nicely with the "hit or miss" centers of the ovals, creating an overall design that is both intricate and orderly.
ProvenanceThe hooked rug was purchased from an antiques store near West Chester, Pennsylvania.