Woven Jacquard Coverlet c. 1939

This Woven Jacquard Coverlet was made by Mary Berner, who lived from 1855 to 1995. Its intricate patterns invite us to consider the intersection of craft, domesticity, and identity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Coverlets like this were more than just functional items; they were expressions of skill and artistry, often made by women within the confines of their homes. The motifs of birds, flora, and architecture speak to a longing for beauty and connection to nature. The imagery is also suggestive of broader social narratives. Note the rows of houses; they perhaps reflect Berner's sense of place and community. What does it mean to create art within the domestic sphere, and how does this challenge traditional notions of artistic value and authorship? The coverlet becomes a testament to the creativity and resilience of women.