Woven Doublecloth Coverlet by Unknown Maker

Date1845-1865

OriginAmerica, Indiana or Ohio (probably)

MediumBlue, red and orange wool, and natural cotton

DimensionsOverall with fringe: 82 1/2" x 78 3/4"

Credit LineGift of Geneva Beavers in honor of Chlovis Wilkinson

Object number1993.609.1

DescriptionThis is a rectangular coverlet woven in blue, red and orange wool threads and natural cotton. It was woven in a double weave structure in two panels and center seamed. It has self fringe at sides and bottom. The centerfield consists of four rows each of three large vases of flowers, pineapples, and grapes, alternating with four rows each of three bird's nests atop foliage in a pattern known as "Birds of Paradise Feeding Their Young." The top and bottom borders consist of large C-shaped foliage. The side borders feature alternating three-story buildings, church-like buildings, and buildings with pagodas, in addition to large leaves and other foliage in a pattern known as "Christian and Heathen." The blocks in all four corners consist of a vase of flowers turned at an angle.Label TextIntroduction Gallery:

Coverlets, or coverlids, are bedcovers distinguished by their use of weaving to create a decorative pattern. Popular from the mid-18th century well into the 19th century, their designs range from simple and geometric to heavily pictorial, featuring animals, florals, people, buildings, and lettering. The introduction of the Jacquard mechanism to American weavers in the 1820s allowed them to create these detailed designs more easily. This coverlet, created by an unknown weaver between 1845 and 1865, features a distinctive bird pattern known as “Birds of Paradise Feeding Their Young”.Inscription(s)No inscriptions.Mark(s)No marks.ProvenanceThe coverlet was given to AARFAM's donor by Mr. Chlovis Wilkinson who had received the coverlet from his father, Allen Judkins Wilkinson ((d. 1952). Allen Wilkinson was born in Ohio where several generations of his family had lived.