Q9085 Linsey-Woolsey

c.1780-1810
73 x 81 inches
New England (possibly New Hampshire
$2,900

This quilt is how we kept warm in New England. There is nothing warmer than sleeping under wool. In this case, two layers of homespun wool. The front of this quilt is a whole cloth, homespun Linsey Woolsey. The front and back are two different colors. The front beautiful red color was achieved using a bath of cochineal. The quilting on this is absolutely amazing. Intricate in detail and a beautiful pattern.

The back mustard color was achieved using a bath of saffron, turmeric or safflower. The backing, also homespun, is more loosely woven, as people thought that the back was not as important as the front. Since the weaving was so time consuming, the back is not as defined as the front.

Normally this quilt is worth at least $8,000, however, when I purchased it I thought I’d be able to get the stains out, but was unsuccessful. This is one of the heaviest quilts I’ve ever washed. Parts of the stains are on both the front and back, thus the lower price. This quilt already has sleeves sewn on the back in case you would like to hang it as art on a wall.