Antique 1870s Double Nine Patch Quilt | Exceptionally Fine Hand-Pieced Blue & White Patchwork - 70"x72"

This antique Double Nine Patch quilt dates to the late 19th century (circa 1875–1900) and is a remarkable example of exceptionally fine hand piecing. This quilt is unique for its extraordinarily small scale of the patchwork: the individual squares within each nine-patch block measure slightly under ½ inch, a level of precision rarely seen outside of true 19th-century quilt-making.

The quilt is entirely hand pieced and hand quilted, with the blocks set on point with alternating solid blocks. The fabrics include period shirtings and calicoes in soft blue and white, accented with indigo, turkey red, and subtle chrome yellow prints typical of the late Victorian era. The hand-quilting is in diagonals, cross-hatches and concentric squares.

The backing fabric is a late-century calico - light blue cotton floral - which has been turned to the front and hand-stitched to form a very narrow binding. The cotton batting is very lightweight.

It is in excellent antique condition with no condition issues noted.

Fine-pieced quilts of this scale are called micro-pieced and, especially in the days before rotary cutting, required templates, careful marking and extensive hand labor. Given this and its lightly-used condition, it was likely made as a dowry piece, or as a "best bed" quilt or exhibition-quality handiwork.

Details:
• Pattern: Double Nine Patch
• Date: c. 1875–1900
• Construction: Hand pieced & hand quilted
• Materials: Cotton fabrics and batting
• Condition: Excellent antique condition
• Size: 70" x 72"
• Notable Feature: Nine-patch squares measure slightly under ½ inch

The quilt measures 70 inches by 72 inches and comes from a smoke-free, pet-free home. It is pictured on a queen-size bed.