$24,675
Pieced and Appliqued Cotton Civil War Era Presentation Album Quilt, possibly Bedford, New York area, c. 1863, the quilt was made for W. H. Wilson M.D. and given to him in 1863, composed of forty white cotton blocks, appliqued with printed and plain fabrics, with embroidery, trapunto, and reverse applique embellishments. The center block depicts a spread-winged eagle over an anchor, an American shield flanked by flags, crossed cannon, and cannonballs, with the stitched name and date "W.H. Wilson M.D. 1863." The presentation block surrounded by blocks depicting a Zouave soldier reclining in his tent, a New York state seal, eagles, flowers, hearts, leaves, and fruit, many of the blocks signed with the stitched and pen and ink signatures of the friends, family and makers of each block, one is signed with the name of the town "Bedford," the edges with meandering budding vine borders, white cotton backing, (minor toning and light stains), 82 x 66 in. Note: The quilt is thought to have been made in the Bedford, New York area because one of the blocks depicts the seal of New York, another is signed "Mrs. Florence M. Miller Bedford."
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2005-06-05
