I am in photography heaven with this new iMAC. Downloading and editing photos is sooooo fast--compared to our old computer. I wanted to share some antique textiles I have displayed in the house right now. The photos above show two antique doll quilts in a basket on the wall of the quilt lab. Both are quite early, some of the fabrics in the larger quilt could be as early as 1830. The latest fabrics in either quilt is probably 1870. The smaller quilt is 6"x9" and each square is roughly 3/4". And yes, I plan to reproduce this one in both antique and reproduction fabrics for future publication.
Another interesting textile that I have on display in the living room is a PA German show towel. These were hung on doors when guests came to visit on Sunday. Many textiles have survived in good shape for this reason--they were put out for show only. This one is dated 1841, I guess ma means May. The name appears to be Eosaph B. Eby.
Thank you for sharing. I really enjoyed seeing the PA show towel. I have recently been doing some net surfing to find examples of these due to a new fascination I have found for these. My family background is German and I would love to own one of these someday. It was great to see yours and nice to know of someone that truely appreciates the history and workmanship behind the towels.
ReplyDeleteOh, love the show towel. What is the little red primitive stand with the hinges below the basket on the wall?
ReplyDeletePerhaps the name is Josaph? Fancy lettering is sometimes different than the way we do it today although the letter does appear to match the last name. Your pieces are lovely!
ReplyDeleteUm, so did the show towel have an actual use? You know, like the towels you put in the bathroom when company comes? Family doesn't use them but company is welcome. Same with the show towels?
ReplyDeleteLiri
I love your little quilts.
ReplyDeleteThe towel is very unique. Was it actually used by company? Or did company know it was there to look pretty and not use?
I never heard of show towels and that story is very interesting. I love your doll quilts. I have a few. Had one appraised which also has a fabric dated to 1830 in it. It is the poisonist of poison greens.
ReplyDeleteI love how you display your treasures! I'm wondering if the chest in the first picture is full of little quilts! I'm betting it is! ---"Love"
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