Hooked Rug

Date1875-1900

MediumWool and cotton on burlap ground (fiber idenfication by eye)

Dimensions79 1/4 X 39 inches

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

Object number1977.611.2

DescriptionThis is a rectangular hooked rug in a pattern of repeated eight-pointed stars with symmetrical leaves, arranged in rows of three across and six down. It is bound in dark cloth tape.
Label TextHooked rugs have been called the one indigenous folk art in America. It is believe that they were first made in the New England states and the Maritime Provinces. Hooking became popular once loose weave and sturdy burlap became available, sometime after 1830. The hooking technique consists of pulling loops of material through the ground fabric. The material is pulled flat on the reverse side. Both front and back of a hooked rug look alike in design.
ProvenancePurchased near West Chester, Pennsylvania.