Antique American Multicolor 1890s Square Quilt: a quilt made in the United States, 79 x 79 inches (6’7″ x 6’7″). It is pieced from fabric and quilted through to a backing, not knotted or woven like a rug. Quilts like this were made as bed coverings; today they are hung as textile art or used as a throw or bed topper. Because it is a textile, we do not recommend it for use on the floor.
Though technically a textile art quilt, it captures the intricate domestic craftsmanship and resourcefulness popular during the period, utilizing salvaged fabrics to create a masterpiece of design.
The structure employs the classic “Fan” or “Dresden Plate” motif, rendered through a sophisticated quilt technique. The overall effect is a striking multicolor jewel tone presentation, contrasting the deep, near-black background with bursts of crimson, turquoise, lavender, and various earth tones.
The composition is highly structured, featuring a repeating grid of blocks that establishes a powerful visual rhythm across the entire square surface. This dense arrangement functions effectively as an allover design, ensuring that the eye finds consistent movement and detail in every quadrant. The delicate, hand-stitched quilting lines—including stylized floral and serpentine motifs—further enhance the depth and texture of the dark field, demonstrating a high degree of technical skill.
Condition: Good.
