Coverlet c. 1940

This is a drawing of a coverlet made by Cornelius Christoffels, who was born in the late 1870s. Though the exact date of this image is not known, we can think about it in terms of what was going on in America at that time. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, craft traditions were closely tied to identity, especially in immigrant communities. For example, weaving, often done by women, became a way to preserve cultural heritage and express individuality amidst the pressures of assimilation. This coverlet, with its intricate patterns, carries the history of both craft and culture. The geometric arrangement may reflect the order and structure that weaving brought to daily life. Consider the emotional weight of these handmade textiles. They were made to provide warmth and comfort, while also embodying personal narratives and cultural connections. The artist's choice of colors and patterns might reveal a story of place, memory, and identity. This work reminds us that craft is not just about making; it's about preserving and communicating who we are.