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Tree of Life Whitework Quilt
Artist unidentified
 Photo by Gavin Ashworth
Tree of Life Whitework Quilt
Tree of Life Whitework Quilt
Artist unidentified
 Photo by Gavin Ashworth
Tree of Life Whitework Quilt Artist unidentified Photo by Gavin Ashworth
Record Details

Tree of Life Whitework Quilt

Date1796
Place/RegionUnited States
MediumCotton and linen with cotton fringe
Dimensions92 1/4 × 87 3/4"
Credit LineGift of Cyril Irwin Nelson in honor of Joel and Kate Kopp
Accession number1997.16.1
Description

The raised patterns on this bedcover were created by stuffing and cording, a technique that is sometimes called “trapunto work”—a reference to a possible Italian origin for the tradition. In order to create the elaborate motifs seen here, the seamstress could add the extra padding either before or after her regular quilting. The designs on elegant whitework bedcovers such as this are usually based on a central medallion format and include motifs that may be derived from Indian palampores and/or Jacobean embroidery, such as Tree of Life and other fruit and floral designs.

Stacy C. Hollander, "Tree of Life Whitework Quilt," exhibition label for QUILTS: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum. Stacy C. Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2010.

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated with new research. Records are reviewed and revised, and the American Folk Art Museum welcomes additional information. 

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