Quilt, Rose of Sharon pattern

Art Historical Context

This striking cotton quilt, created around 1860 in the United States, showcases the Rose of Sharon pattern, a beloved appliqué design featuring lush floral motifs arranged in symmetrical blocks. Measuring roughly 84 inches square, the piece reflects the meticulous handwork of its unknown maker, who layered and stitched cotton fabrics to create a vibrant, blooming composition. The medium of cotton was widely available and practical during this era, allowing for both durability and the vibrant dyes that bring the roses and surrounding foliage to life. Quilt-making in mid-19th-century America se...