Coverlet, 1825-1850

Unknown artist, expand_more
Not on Viewexpand_more

Overshot coverlets are among the earliest decorative bed covers produced in the United States and their popularity continued well into the nineteenth century. They feature geometric woven designs created by supplementary weft floats on a plain weave ground. The oldest overshot weaving utilized handspun linen warp and weft with handspun, indigo-dyed wool providing the decorative pattern.

Most overshot coverlets are totally covered with eye-dazzling patterns. This coverlet is unusual in that it alternates bands of blue and white with bands of white-on-white patterning.The popularity of this type of coverlet is due to two important factors. First, attractive patterns could be easily produced with a relatively simple loom, utilizing materials that were readily available. More importantly perhaps, overshot is a very warm weave for the amount of wool that is used, making it both comfortable and economical.

Details
Title
Coverlet
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2004.174.23
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know

Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.

No Image Available