America was on the verge of a civil war in 1861. Patriotism intensified for the majority of Americans as they experienced a young nation’s struggle for survival. Artisans made coverlets to order based on patterns the shop offered. This customer—probably from New York—specified a pattern containing a variety of symbols to convey patriotic zeal. Four domed buildings, four partridges, four pear branches and four stags offset the eight eagles. Two thistles anchor the symmetrical design at top and bottom.

Red and white double weave construction, the date 1861 appears in the corners. This fine antique coverlet was part of an exemplary collection by Joseph D. Shein, featured in his book Coverlets and the Spirit of America, curated by Melinda Zongor, pp. 202 and 203.

Dimensions: 98" x 88".

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