Pattern Name: Sunflower
Age: 1860s-1870s
Quilting: self quilting throughout - hand pieced and hand-quilted
Material: plant dyed plain pokeberry calico with vibrant blue and madder calico pieces, chrome yellow border - UNBELIEVABLE utility quilting throughout
Measurements: 86x72
 
Heritage: This quilt was found in Texas and is one of the most wonderful quilts I've had the privilege to steward.  An early example of pokeberry dye (a more burgundy dye than madder) and VIBRANT blue.  The sunflowers themselves are made of a variety of shirting fabrics with some early Garibaldi prints where the iron mordant for the black dye has worn away the pattern.  The blue is remarkable and so is the wonderful vine applique border.  The quilting is also a showstopper.  This quilt is one of my favorites of all time and an excellent example of this particular time period. 
 
Condition: Overall the piece is in good condition for its age.  The quilt itself is quite sturdy, but there are some issues:  the caustic iron mordants have eaten away the fabric and there is general wear and tear to the fabric.  The binding is frayed, but in good shape.  There are some storage stains in a few places. This quilt is still strong, and deserves a place of honor.  This would not be a quilt to wash, but to leave outside in the sun (upside down or under a clean white sheet) for a few warm, sunny days.  This is the traditional cleaning method for these types of quilts and would be appropriate here.