This quilt came from Louise Harding's attic.  Click here to read more about Louise's family. 

 

The quilt is not signed or dated; however, Louise's grandmother, Lydia Stout Harding (1844-1923), and/or Lydia's mother are likely to have made this quilt as it has characteristics similar to that of Lydia's wedding quilt (1860).  I can place the dark green, red and gold fabric as early as 1860-1880(based on information from Dating Fabrics, a Color Guide 1800-1960 by Eileen Jahnke Trestain).   Other clues that came from Louise's attic were the stacks of old ladies magazines.  I can only imagine how the quilters selected this design.  Maybe it was selected from a ladies magazine of that time which would have included wide borders and large repeating, fairly simple geometric blocks.

 

 

The quilt has 12, 14" appliqué blocks set on point.  The quilt measures approximately 73" X 92". 

 

 

The triple border is not mitered but has small blocks set at each corner.  The corners compliment the geometric diamond shape of the leaves, bloom tips and the straight line of the main stem.  The quilt design is softened by the curves of the flower head and side stems.  

 

 

The quilting is small and meticulous.  It includes both geometric and curved elements.  Diamonds fill the appliqué block background and the borders have evenly spaced, parallel lines grouped by two (can someone tell me if this called double-rodding).  The setting blocks feature a feathered wreath quilting design.

 

The quilt appears never to have been used or washed.  The pencil markings are still visible.  There is some staining and color bleed on the borders from storage, otherwise the quilt is in excellent condition.

 

Click here to read more about the Harding family and other quilts from this collection.