Images(2)

Woven Coverlet Fragments, Two Pieces

Date19th century

OriginAmerica

MediumCotton, wool (by microscope 6/15/2015 TMT)

DimensionsOverall (,1): 35 1/2 x 11 3/4in. (90.2 x 29.8cm) Overall (,2): 41 1/4 x 11 3/4in. (104.8 x 29.8cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1985.609.2,1&2

DescriptionThese two rectangular coverlet fragments are made of wool and cotton in an overshot weave. While the design is the same on both fragments, the wool wefts are different colors: fragment 1 uses tan wool, and fragment 2 uses beige wool. The geometric design is formed of squares and rectangles, creating crosses in the corners of each block. Fragment 1 has raw edges, and fragment 2 has a flat hem on all sides.
Label TextOvershot is a weave structure in which the design is created by supplementary wefts floating above or below the body fabric. In these fragments, as with many overshot coverlets, the technique is used to make a geometric pattern out of rectangles and squares. Coverlets, such as the ones these came from, were most often made by professional weavers on commission rather than made in the home.
MarkingsNo marks or inscriptions
ProvenanceMuseum Purchase, 1985.