a nice gift

crib quilt, cottons, unknown maker, USA, c. 1860, 35" x 40"

This week I received a bag full of goodies from a friend who is downsizing. Among the goodies was this lovely little old crib quilt. I think it was probably made around 1860. The fabrics look right for that period.

The condition is far from perfect, a sign that it was well loved and used a lot. That's really the way it should be. Whenever I see a very old crib quilt in flawless condition, I feel a little sad to think of the reasons why it was never used. After much wear, washing and fading, this quilt has a very pleasing color palette.