Antique Oak Leaf Appliqué Quilt c. 1850s – Stipple Quilted – 76” x 76”

This striking mid-19th century Oakleaf appliqué quilt dates to the 1850s and is a beautiful example of pre-Civil War workmanship. The bold red and green oakleaf wreaths against the crisp white ground are striking, but the exceptional hand quilting is what really elevates this quilt.

In addition to fine, consistent hand quilting throughout the field, the border features elaborate braided rope patterns and dense stipple quilting — a rarely found detail and most often associated with higher-skill antebellum quilts. The quilting is tight, even, and clearly executed by an experienced quilter.

The classic Oakleaf composition remains beautiful after 175 years with its repeating wreath formations with red printed oak leaves and green appliqué foliage, all hand-applied to a white ground. The back is white cotton while the white cotton from the four-sided white border has been turned to the back and hand-stitched to form the binding. The cotton batting is very lightweight.

Condition: This is a true antique textile with honest age-related wear. There is fabric loss and thinning present in portions of both the red and green appliqué fabrics. These areas are clearly shown in the photographs. The white ground remains strong and stable, and the quilt retains its structure and integrity. The appliqué remains attached and the quilting intact. It is not recommended for heavy use but is beautifully suited for display.

Details:

• Pattern: Oakleaf appliqué (wreath formation)
• Date: Circa 1850s (Pre-Civil War)
• Size: 76” x 76”
• Construction: Hand appliqué, hand quilted
• Quilting: Fine overall quilting with dense stipple quilting along the border
• Materials: Cotton fabrics and very lightweight cotton batting
• Condition: Structurally sound antique quilt with fabric loss and thinning to portions of the red and green appliqué fabrics. White ground remains strong. Quilting intact. Suitable for display rather than daily use.

The quilt comes from a smoke-free, pet-free home and is pictured on a queen-size bed.
HL00022