Coverlet c. 1940

Cornelius Christoffels made this watercolor and graphite rendering of a coverlet. It is an object deeply entrenched in histories of home, craft, and identity. This image invites us to consider the cultural and personal significance of textiles. The coverlet, traditionally a functional bed covering, transforms into a medium of artistic expression and cultural preservation. The geometric patterns, rendered in careful detail, speak to the artistry and skill involved in textile production. While the artist is male, textiles were often associated with women's labor and domestic spaces. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, they provided an outlet for creativity and self-expression, while also reflecting regional identities. This coverlet, with its careful attention to color and form, transcends its utilitarian function and becomes a testament to the enduring power of craft. It reflects the convergence of tradition, identity, and artistic expression within the intimate spaces of home.