Quilt, Pieced Crib Sampler

DateProbably 1880-1910

OriginAmerica, Rhode Island, Block Island (probably)

MediumPrinted cottons

Dimensions37 1/4" X 31 1/4" (94.6 cm. x 79.4 cm.)

Credit LineGift of Joanne M. and Emmett W. Eldred, Hingham, Mass.

Object number1984.609.5

DescriptionThis is a small rectangular quilt consisting of 20 blocks pieced from geometric shapes, mostly squares, rectangles, and triangles representing four-patch and nine-patch designs. The blocks measure 4 7/8" x 5". The large blocks are linked to adjoining blocks by a total of 12 small red blocks measuring 1 7/8" x 1 7/8". Yellow, red, and green colors predominate. The border features an appliqued repeat of three curved tulip petals. The backing is a single piece of a red, white, pink, and black printed cotton. The 3/8-inch binding is white, green, and black floral printed cotton. The quilting was done at about eight running stitches per inch in large pumpkin seeds or elliptical shapes in the borders and sashing and Xs or simple lines in the squares and bars of the interior blocks.
Label TextWith blocks measuring less than five inches square, this diminutive quilt was intended for an infant's crib or perhaps a large doll bed. The quilt is a true sampler of piecing techniques, using tiny scraps to create a variety of patterns. The diverse blocks give the quilt a visual sophistication that belies its small size. The textile was found on Block Island, Rhode Island, and may have been made there.
Markingsnone found
ProvenanceThe quilt was found on Block Island, Rhode Island by the donors, Joanne M. and Emmett W. Eldred. No further provenance is known.