Quilt

Object Name:

Quilt

Object ID:

2007.041

Creator:

Crafts, Esther (1791-1879)

Place of Origin:

Walpole, NH

Date:

1816

Description:

Quilt. Made by Esther Crafts (1791-1879), Walpole, NH; 1816. Stuffed whitework ("trapunto") with small cut-out corners (only about 7 inches deep). Design has a framed center medallion, as seen in the design of machine-woven Marseilles quilts, which this handmade version imitates. The influence of Bolton spreads is also seen in the stepped shape of the center medallion. No design inside the center medallion frame, just a filling of a double diamond grid. Outside of the stepped frame is a filling of scallops, then a running feather frame, which undulates and has floral motifs inside the corners. Followed by a filling of a single diamond grid, then an outer border of an undulating strap, with arched leafy branches over the outer curves. The backing is a coarsely woven cotton through which the maker was able to push bits of cotton to stuff the motifs. Cording is threaded through channels within elements of the framing designs. Little tufts of cotton batting and cording extend from holes in the backing fabric. Bottom edge is finished front-to-back; the cut-outs are bound with white cotton on the straight grain; and the remaining three sides have a knife edge finish.

Material:

Textile
Cotton

Dimensions:

W-69 L-76.25 inches

Provenance:

Donor is a descendant of Esther Crafts. Hand sewn by Esther Crafts (1791-1879) of Walpole, NH, daughter of John Crafts and Esther Sartwell; married Dr. Ebenezer Morse (1785-1863), 1816. Made as a bride's quilt, 1816.

Credit Line:

Gift of Grace Ann Morse Sargent

People:

Crafts, Esther (1791-1879), Morse, Ebenezer (1785-1863)

Subjects:

Needlework, Quilting, Sewing, Quilts