Embroidered coverlet

A. S. S.

1844 · Embroidered cotton · The American Wing

This coverlet is a single layer of plain-weave cotton fabric that has been embroidered in loops of thick, white cotton thread. The top edge is hemmed; the other three edges are embellished with a hand-woven applied cotton fringe. The overall design centers on a geometric cross-shaped figure that is surrounded by floral vine motifs and a basket; the wide border alternates florals and geometrics. At the top are a spread eagle and the inscription block. Many of the patterns of the embroidery, and the candlewicking technique, mimic loom-woven counterpanes of the period. Popular, professionally woven counterpanes were expensive, and many women responded by making their own homemade versions. This piece was found in Maine by the donors but could have been made almost anywhere in the eastern United States.

Artist

A. S. S.

Date

1844

Medium

Embroidered cotton

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of Elyse Topalian and David D'Arcy, in memory of Malcom F. Topalian, 1999