Antique Victorian Crazy Quilt - Initialed "R.M." & "S.B." - c. 1880s - Hand Pieced – 64” x 72”

A remarkable Victorian-era crazy quilt, hand pieced and hand embroidered in the late 19th century. This quilt is foundation pieced, using an extraordinary variety of antique silks, velvets, and fine dress fabrics, many of which exhibit shattered silk—a well-documented result of metal-salt weighting used in silk production before World War I. The quilt has a stunning plaid satin four-sided border, but no backing besides the cotton used for the foundation piecing (see photos).

Throughout the surface are beautiful hand-embroidered details, including dozens of different embroidery stitches, floral motifs, pictorial scenes, initials, and symbolic imagery. Every section reflects the Victorian love of embellishment and personal storytelling, and thus their love of crazy quilts.

It is in very good condition with two old repairs, plus shattered silks as explained above and as seen in the photos.

Details:
• Era: late 19th century; 1880s
• Construction: Hand foundation pieced
• Embroidery: Entirely hand embroidered
• Materials: Antique silks, velvets, brocades, and dress fabrics
• Size: 64” x 72”

A rare and authentic example of Victorian crazy quilting, the quilt is best suited for display, collection, or very gentle use due to its age.

The quilt comes from a smoke-free, pet-free home and is pictured on a queen-size bed.
CQ0005