Expert: Julie Silber - 10/23/2009

Question
QUESTION: How old are they, one has a print, strip, of American flag, velvet, silk is worn, wonderful embroidery.  Thank you, Gen

ANSWER: Hello,

Thanks for your question.

There was fad for Crazy Quilts starting in 1876 and going until about 1920 or so.  (There were crazy quilts still made after that time, too, but not in great numbers).

I think the Flag fabric is probably silk printed to celebrate the Centennial (1876).  Your blocks were very likely made in the 20 years or so after that.  Hard to pinpoint it more closely without seeing more -- and even then, it might be difficult to give better than that range.

Hope this helps,

Julie Silber
www.thequiltcomplex.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Would collectors have an interest in the blocks?
Thanks again, Gen

ANSWER: Hi again,

It depends.  

Quilts of this era with these fabrics (silks, taffetas, etc.) are often either damaged or fragile, and that makes a big difference. What is their condition?

Julie



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello, Julie,

Each of the three blocks have either some threading of the silk or sort of a cracking in what I think is taffeta.  This occurs in from one to three places in each block. The embroidery is in many colors. The blocks are foundation pieced. We think these are beautiful.
Thank you for all your help.  .

Answer
Hi again,

Thanks.  It is typical for the silks and taffetas of this era to crack or break.   When these fabric start to "fail" there is no going back. It is not from use or abuse -- it is in the nature of the materials and the dyes.

I don;t know anyone who wants to collect pieces that are starting to go and hold the promise of continuing their deterioration.  As beautiful as these pieces are, there is no "market" for them.

I wish I had better news for you, but this is the way it IS...

Best,
Julie S

www.thequiltcomplex.com