Quilt, "Siege of Gibraltar"

DateAfter 1782, possibly ca. 1783

OriginEngland; America, Virginia (possibly used in)

MediumCotton, wool, linen

DimensionsOH: 95 1/4 inches
OW: 91 3/4 inches
Selvage width of face fabric: 27 1/2 inches (as quilted)

Credit LineGift of Preservation Virginia

Object number2026-92

DescriptionWholecloth quilt of medium blue copperplate-printed textile panels with scenes depicting the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779-1783). The scenes include battles with soldiers on horseback; soldiers in ships and open boats; sea nymphs and creatures; putti; flying birds; banners and flags referring to Elliot, the events, and the date 1782. The quilt top consists of 3 1/4 panels of a linen warp/cotton weft printed textile. It is quilted in a zig-zag pattern of parallel lines with 7 to 8 wool running stitches per inch through woolen batting and plain-woven off-white wool backing. The edges are finished by turning the textiles to the inside and stitching.Label TextThe man referred to as "Brave Elliot" in this printed textile refers to General Sir George Augustus Elliott, who fought on the British side at Gibraltar. The scene is inspired by events that took place during the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779-1783) at which the English defended the fortress against France and Spain.Inscription(s)"Brave Elliot's Defense of Gibraltar in 1782."
"Your FAME, Inglorious France and Spain/ Sunk by Brave ELLIOT'S Coup de Main/1782." Portrait medallions identified as Gen. Elliot, Nassau, De Chillon, and Capt. Curtis.
Preservation Virginia's accession number stitched in: 1976-518ProvenanceDates unknown, history unknown; ca. 1976-2025, Preservation Virginia (Richmond, Virginia); 2025, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)