Quilt, pieced Log Cabin

Dateca. 1885

MediumWool, cotton, silk

Dimensions95 X 95 inches

Credit LineGift of The Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2024.609.11

DescriptionSquare "Log Cabin" patchwork quilt consisting of 100 squares, each centered with a purple square, surrounded by solids, paisley and floral prints, woven textures, plaids, and stripes in purples, blues, yellows, and browns predominating. The overall color arrangement gives the effect of large diamonds. The edges are finished with narrow bright blue twill binding. The quilt is backed with two different brown and white printed cottons. A small-scale geometric print and a small-scale medallion print alternate to form eight wide bands on the backing. Printing errors in backing fabrics are evident. Some holes and fragile textiles on front.Label TextThe quilt pattern known as "Log Cabin" involves a technique of building up individual squares with strips of textile (the "logs") surrounding a central small square. In this case, all of the small central squares are purple, forming the anchor for the other colors.Mark(s)Number label sewn to back reads "V.83.135.2"ProvenanceMrs. James A. Hagemann (dates unknown); 1983, gift to Valentine Museum [Richmond, VA]; 2024, gift to Colonial Williamsburg Foundation [Williamsburg, VA].