Coverlet
1820-40
United States, Probably Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
The Art Institute's Department of Textiles has a distinguished, wide-ranging collection of 221 American coverlets, or bedcovers. A recent donation of six examples of the very rare star work type has strengthened the museum's holdings significantly, as this category was previously represented by only two pieces. This type of coverlet is named for the complex star and diamond pattern which is characteristic of and made possible by the multiple shafts or harnesses employed, sometimes as many as 24.
Cotton and wool, composite point twill weave (star work, multiple shaft); two loom widths joined; with attached plain weave strip with weft fringe