Antique 1850s Chintz Quilt - "Crosses and Losses" Pattern - Large 82" x 94"

This is an exquisite hand-appliquéd Tulip Quilt, circa 1900-1925, that features a bold arrangement of nine stylized tulip motifs set against a crisp white background, with a stunning red and green appliqué bow swag border that frames the entire design.

The quilt is composed of large on-point blocks, each containing a stylized tulip motif with branching stems and leaves. The tulips are cut from vivid solid red cotton and paired with bright apple-green leaves and stems, typical of the late 19th to early 20th century revival of bold appliqué quilts. The hand-quilting is tiny, very fine and in close diagonal grids along the border and in double-cross-hatch grids around the tulips.

The back is white cotton as is the very narrow binding that has been hand-stitched to both sides. The cotton batting is very lightweight.

The quilt is in excellent antique condition with one small, nearly imperceptible old repair to one of the swags on the border.

A small handwritten note that accompanies the quilt reads “My Great Grandma 1855 – 129 yrs old in 1984.” While family notes are often approximate, the quilt itself appears younger than 171 years old, and is more consistent with early twentieth-century construction and fabrics. The note is nevertheless included with the quilt as part of its history.

Details
• Size: 83” x 83”
• Pattern: Tulip appliqué blocks with bow swag border
• Era: Early 20th century (circa 1900–1925)
• Materials: Cotton fabrics with cotton batting
• Construction: Hand appliquéd and hand quilted
• Colors: Red, green, and white
• Backing: White cotton backing
• Provenance: Includes the original handwritten family note shown in the photographs.

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

HL0021