Bedspread c. 1940

Catherine Fowler made this ‘Bedspread’, its date unknown, using embroidery. Fowler lived a long life, her birth in 1855 placing her within a generation that saw rapid industrial and social changes. The needlework offers us a glimpse into the visual culture and domestic life of 19th-century America. Embroidery, often associated with femininity and domesticity, was a common pastime and skill for women. This bedspread, however, transcends mere utility, acting as a canvas where Fowler could express her creativity and possibly her personal narrative. The varied motifs—flora, fauna, and symbolic objects—speak to a world of visual and perhaps emotional significance. The central inscription of a name suggests a personal connection, possibly a commemoration or a gift for a loved one. The emotional labor invested in each stitch asks us to consider the value placed on women's work. Through her craft, Fowler creates a space for personal expression, reflecting both the constraints and the creative potential of her time.