Image Not Available

Wholecloth Quilt

QuiltmakerQuilted by Clarissa Dunham (American)

Dateabout 1820

MediumHand-stitched, glazed cylinder-printed cotton, or chintz; plain-woven linen; linen thread

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width): 93 3/8 x 87in. (237.2 x 221cm)

ClassificationsTextiles

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Carrie Loomis Schober

Object number1933.16.5

DescriptionWholecloth quilt consisting of a glazed blue and white cylinder-printed chintz top, batting, and a plain-woven linen backing; these three layers are hand-stitched together with linen thread in a quilted pattern. The cylinder-printed, Chinoiserie, design consists large flowers, a pagoda and a tower with gothic arches. The quilted pattern includes five rows of four circles containing diamonds and surrounded by leaves, or slanted lobes. This is surrounded by an undulating vine with leaves. The quilted pattern is on a background of diagonal lines. The bottom corners of the quilt are rounded.

The top consists of four panels of chintz that are about 21 inches wide. An additional strip of chintz is sewn to the right side and to the upper left corner. The backing consists of three panels of plain-woven, home-spun, linen, with additional strips at the top of the quilt. Each edge of the quilt has blue dyed cotton binding.

Condition: The top and backing are unevenly stained. There are some small holes on the backing.

NotesHistorical Note: According to the donor, this quilt was made in 1820 by Clarissa Dunham on Shuttle Meadow Farm in New Britain, Connecticut. Shuttle Meadow Farm was the home of Henry and Julia Ann Cornwall Dunham, the donor's grandparents. The flax for the quilt lining was grown there.

Historical Note: Clarissa Dunham, the quiltmaker, may have been the sister or mother of Harvey Dunham, the donor's grandfather.

Status

Not on view