Exceptional Mid-1800s Chintz Figural Bird Quilt, – Initialed "Mc" – 76"x82"

This is a remarkable and rare mid-19th-century antique quilt, featuring beautifully hand-appliquéd figural birds, hearts, stars, and an exquisite floral medallion center richly embellished with early embroidery. Based on its materials, artistry, fine quilting and intricate chintz motifs, this was likely made as a wedding or trousseau quilt.

The quilt is initialed “Mc” and "NY" in the central panel, above which there is an elaborately embroidered basket of flowers embellished in blue and red and surrounded by chintz stars, birds and serpentine vines. The hand-quilting is also exquisite and is in a grid of tiny diamonds throughout the body of the quilt.

The back is cream/white cotton, while the front has been turned to the back and hand-stitched to form the binding. The cotton batting is very lightweight.

The quilt is in excellent antique condition with age-related toning on the front and back (see photos).

Details
• Type: Antique quilt
• Date: Circa 1840–1860 (mid-19th century)
• Maker: Initialed “Mc" and "NY"
• Size: 76” x 82”
• Materials: Hand-woven cottons, early chintz fabrics, cotton and wool embroidery threads
• Construction: Entirely hand sewn and hand quilted
• Design: Figural birds, hearts, stars, and floral medallion with extensive embroidery
• Backing: Plain early cotton
• Condition: Excellent antique condition with expected age-related toning; no modern alterations noted