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Question of the Week

Question for the week of May 26, 1997:

Our question this week comes from Kaaren Christ

Are quilts found around the world, or are they particular only to certain countries? Historically?

Karen Gallimore :
If you include quilted clothing, as well as patchwork
and applique covers, they have been found almost everywhere
and for a very long time...examples can be found in museums
in the Orient, South America, Africa, etc., some dating back
to at least the Middle Ages if not before. It makes me wonder
what didn't survive!

Anthony :
Yes, Kaaren. Most cold climes have some form of art where layers of textile are joined together to enhance thermal qualities. Even in warm climes there's a widespread practice of applique; layering textiles to form a pictoral or abstract representation. The earliest known examples of quilts date back to the early Egytpian and Chinese dynasties. However, the repetitive-block-with-border type designs now popular seem to be a singularily American art form. HST, many of the geometric designs are evident in many ancient cultures. For me, this is a fascinating area of study. Good luck in your quest.

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