Candlewick Bed Covering
EmbroidererPossibly made by
Polly Atkins
(American)
Dateearly 19th century
MediumEmbroidery; cotton yarn (two-ply) and cotton thread on a compound-weave cotton ground
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width): 97 1/2 x 97in. (247.7 x 246.4cm)
ClassificationsTextiles
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Thomas Archibald
Object number1985.20.27
DescriptionCandlewick bed covering, consisting of a single layer of compound-weave cotton decorated with embroidered two-ply cotton yarn; the bed covering is embroidered with the initials "PA" at the top center. The bed covering is T shaped, with square cut-outs at each lower corner to accommodate the corners of a bed. The candlewick decoration consists of a basket of flowers in the center below a crescent moon and stars, a pair of Federal eagles, and the initials "P" and "A". This is surrounded by a wide border of fruit, leaves and flowers on an undulating vine. At the sides and bottom of the quilt are additional concentric borders of a scalloped border of stars, additional Federal eagles, and a border of six-pointed flowers and crossing lines to create a geometric design. Each side and the bottom edges of the bed covering have a knotted net edging with fringe.
The compound-woven cotton ground is constructed of four panels of fabric that are hand-stitched together. All four edges of the ground have a double-turned hem. The candlewick design is formed with many stitches, including outline, running, rope, french knots, roumanian, satin, fern, and buttonhole. The stitches that form the initials are a different character than the rest, and may be a later addition.
Condition: The ground has slight staining across the top. Otherwise, the ground and stitches are in excellent condition.
The compound-woven cotton ground is constructed of four panels of fabric that are hand-stitched together. All four edges of the ground have a double-turned hem. The candlewick design is formed with many stitches, including outline, running, rope, french knots, roumanian, satin, fern, and buttonhole. The stitches that form the initials are a different character than the rest, and may be a later addition.
Condition: The ground has slight staining across the top. Otherwise, the ground and stitches are in excellent condition.
Status
Not on view
