Checkerboard and Cross Block Quilt with Tassels

In this brown and cream-colored quilt, square and rectangular patches are arranged to form framed checkerboards and crosses. The eye constantly oscillates between these two patterns; sometimes the checkerboards are dominant, other times the crosses are. The quilt’s tassel ties are made visible by the use of contrasting thread colors. The backing is made of pieced sections of natural, undyed cloth.

After moving to Washington, DC following World War II, Ira Blount mastered dozens of artisanal crafts. His love for crafting, learning, and community engagement would endure over the course of his long life and career.