Counterpane, "Rural Scenes" copperplate print
DateCa. 1780
MediumCotton
Dimensions69 in x 75 in
Fringe: 9 in wide
Fabric width: 23 1/2 in
Repeat: 34 in
Fringe: 9 in wide
Fabric width: 23 1/2 in
Repeat: 34 in
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1967-505,1
DescriptionCounterpane or bedspread with fringe: Rural scenes, "Farm Scenes with Sheep-dipping and Shearing"; copperplate-printed in red on natural tabby-woven cotton ground. Vignettes show men dipping sheep in stream by rustic bridge, woven vine fence-enclosed sheepfold with rams and ewes, adjacent to which men are shearing sheep; women with baskets, and men with rakes over shoulder returning from hay fields, others riding atop loaded hay wagon, are converging on farm house area where, under a large tree, a cloth-covered table with food is set up. Farm house with barn and lean-to shelter attached are different from that depicted in a later (1790) version of this same print, also, background is less congested; unlined spread is trimmed on three sides with 9" wide knotted and tasseled cotton fringe.Label TextPastoral scenes were a favored theme for copperplate textile printers. This print depicts several steps in wool processing; washing and shearing sheep of their fleece.Mark(s)Blue threads in selvage.ProvenancePrior to 1967, unnamed vendor (Peekskill, NY); 1967, purchased by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)
Late 18th century
1840-1880
1775
Late 19th Century