Crazy quilt c. 1882

textile

pattern heavy

natural stone pattern

textile

collage layering style

mural art

geometric pattern

tile art

united-states

pattern repetition

layered pattern

decorative art

motif

This "Crazy quilt" (c. 1882) is a stunning example of the popular 19th-century textile art form. It is composed of an array of scraps of fabric, painstakingly pieced together and embellished with intricate embroidery, showcasing the craftsmanship of the anonymous maker. The quilt's chaotic, yet visually harmonious composition reflects the popularity of "crazy quilts" during the Victorian era, and exemplifies the practice of using scraps of fabric to create unique and visually captivating works of art. The quilt, now part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art's collection, is a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of the 19th-century textile tradition.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

⋮

Among the vibrant patches in this crazy quilt are three printed souvenir ribbons: two relate to Freemasons (men-only secret societies that act as social groups), and the third commemorates the 1882 Wisconsin Pharmaceutical Association meeting. Souvenir ribbons in similar crazy quilts typically reference women’s charitable organizations or Civil War veterans’ reunions. The emphasis on exclusively male social and professional societies seen here is rare in the distinctly feminine, domestic craft of quilting. The donors of this quilt trace its ownership through their grandfather, Frank H. Allen. Originally from Wisconsin, Allen later lived in Staples, Minnesota, and was a doctor. Allen would have been a child when the quilt was made, and it is possible his father also worked in the medical field. Conservation of this artwork was made possible by Barbara and Paul Mikelson, in memory of Emma Kloos Hitzemann, through Mia's Art Champions program.