For many years, late eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century quilts made of wool were called "linsey-woolsey." Today, however, it is understood that these quilts are not made of a homespun combination of linen and wool, as that term implies, but usually sewn entirely of wool. Often, the wool that was selected for quilts such as the Harlequin Medallion Quilt was a professionally manufactured, glazed, worsted fabric known as "calimanco," which probably was imported from England. This early bedcover retains much of its original glazed surface. It is constructed in the center-medallion format that was popular before about 1840 but anticipates the elaborate pieced patterns of later quilts. Its bold, geometric composition of large triangular pieces in bright, saturated colors appears very contemporary, belying the still commonly held notion that early American homes were devoid of color. In fact, this type of bedcover often displays beautiful shades achieved with natural dyes. When compared with the similar palette of polychrome silk threads used in Lucina Hudson's needlework, it becomes apparent that the use of bright colors was widespread in the needle arts by the turn of the nineteenth century.

Stacy C. Hollander, "Harlequin Medallion Quilt," in American Anthem: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum (New York: Harry N. Abrams in association with American Folk Art Museum, 2001), 304.