Square c. 18th century

This textile, known as "Square," was created by an anonymous artist and now resides at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Imagine the hands that meticulously stitched this geometric house-like form into the fabric. The artist, likely a woman, used the medium of cloth to create a sense of home. It’s difficult to look at this textile without thinking about the gendered nature of craft and domesticity. It speaks to the rich tradition of textile art often associated with women's work. It’s striking how this textile, with its precise patterns, offers a structured yet comforting image of a dwelling. It is a powerful commentary on identity, home, and the human need for shelter and belonging.