Quilt
PeriodCirca 1830-1840
Place MadeNew Jersey, U.S.A., France, and England
MediumCotton chintz, wool
Dimensions76 × 69 in. (193 × 175.3 cm)
ClassificationsQuilts and Coverlets
Credit LineMuseum Collection, 1974
Object numberT1974.110
DescriptionA whole cloth quilt, comprised of roller printed glazed cotton chintz in a large repeat pattern of trees, flowers, and leaves with a variety of game birds including pheasants, in soft tones of brown, tan, and dull green. The fabric has been pieced to achieve the overall size. Both sides of the coverlet are of the same fabric, with edges turned together to form a binding, hand quilted in large stitches in an overall diamond chain pattern encasing a thick wool batting.Curatorial RemarksThis "whole cloth quilt," often called a "comfortable" in the early 19th century, is constructed of lengths and pieces of a printed cotton fabric. Fabrics of this type, printed with very large repeating patterns depicting natural scenes, animals, or bucolic countryside scenes, were specifically produced for household furnishings rather than garments. Bed hangings, draperies, summer seating covers, cushions, pillows, and large, lofty "comfortables" were typical. Once printed, the cotton fabric underwent a final mechanical process. First invented in Manchester, England, glazing applied a mixture of wax and starch to the fabric, lightly coating it with a somewhat moisture resistant surface, perfect for household use. The light sheen or shine of glazing was an added bonus. Repeated washings could and often did remove this coating.
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