Blanket, Blue & Red Check

DateLate 18th-early 19th century

MediumWool warp and weft; linen sewing thread; cotton fragmentary wefts at ends

DimensionsOW: 88" x OL: 72"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1950-217

DescriptionThis is a rectangular blanket woven of homespun woolen warps and wefts in indigo blue and rusty red checks of fancy twill giving the effect of woven diamonds where the colors cross. The checks alternate from 1 1/2" wide to 2" wide, narrowing at the outside edges to form a subtle border. The blanket is woven in two panels, butted and stitched with brown linen thread; the checks do not match at the center seam. The hem end has remnants of natural-color cotton threads woven in the weft direction, possibly to signal the end of the blanket on the loom. The ends are mended, patched, and worn at the folded-over hem. Selvages form the edge finish.
Label TextAlthough warm woolen blankets came in through the export market from England to the early Americans, many wove their own blankets. This example may be home constructed. The blanket is hand assembled from two panels woven 44 inches wide on the loom.
ProvenancePurchased from a dealer based in Connecticut.