1880 - 1899 Margaret Simpson's Crazy-patch Parlor Throw

This elaborate, tasseled example of crazy-patchwork was owned by Margaret Lenington Simpson and donated by her great-great-grandson. The style, motifs and fabrics that were used indicate the 1880s or 1890s. The motif labeled “Patrick Henry” was actually the conductor of a group of musicians in an embroidery pattern designed for a night-gown case. It appeared in the 1880s Needlecraft: Artistic & Practical by Butterick Publishing Co. Limited, N.Y. Other motifs are mainly floral, but also include birds, butterflies, and fans. The parlor throw was constructed in blocks, with additional patches covering the areas where they are joined. A variety of embroidery stitches were used for embellishment. It has a red satin, lining also decorated with embroidery.

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