Woven Coverlet c. 1937

Helen Bronson created this coverlet, woven from dyed wool, sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. The process of weaving involves interlacing two sets of threads: the warp, which runs lengthwise, and the weft, which is passed back and forth across the warp. Here, the weaver has used a complex weave structure to create a repeating pattern of flowers, stars, and eagles. What’s special about this particular textile, is the way that it combines craft with patriotic imagery. The eagle, a potent symbol of national pride, is front and center, surrounded by stars and set against a background of red, white, and blue. This coverlet would have taken many hours to create, with each thread carefully placed to form the desired design. Given the laborious nature of weaving, it's worth considering the social context in which this piece was made. The woven coverlet speaks to the value placed on handmade goods, at a time when industrialization was rapidly changing the landscape of production. By understanding its materials, making and context, we can better understand its full meaning.