Q8787 Wool Challis & Silk Log Cabin Courthouse Steps
c.1860
66 x 76 (167.6 x 193 cm)
Philadelphia, PA
$2,200

A wonderful piece of textile art in excellent condition, this pre Civil War Log Cabin quilt arranged in the classic Courthouse Steps pattern is a feast for the eyes. Made from a wide variety of wool challis and silk fabrics from c.1840 - 1860, this hand made quilt’s color palette is gorgeous. Its mix of solids, plaids, stripes and geometrics gives it a contemporary feel while color and pattern arrangement showcases the artistic talent of its maker.

Blocks measuring 9 1/2 x 9 1/2 inches each contain twenty 5/8 inch wide logs. Alternating red and blue chimneys add a whimsical touch and bring a sense of movement to the overall design. The blocks were each foundation pieced by hand onto a beautiful c.1840 brown and madder striped cotton. Please see detail image. Blocks were then assembled; foundation fabric edges were carefully turned under and the blocks meticulously stitched together. This method of foundation piecing is uniquely New England. The result is the foundation fabric also serves as the backing of the quilt with no filler between. This quilter either moved from New England to Pennsylvania bringing her quilt with her, or created it after the move using the skills she learned growing up in New England. A 3/8 inch applied solid brown wool binding frames the inner log cabin design simply and beautifully.

This is an elegant Log Cabin quilt rich with color and pattern that would be beautiful hung as art on the wall or used as a design accent in any room. Ask us about seeing this quilt on approval in the privacy of your home.