Antique Indigo & Tan Double Nine-Patch on Point Quilt, c. 1900

A handsome late-19th to turn-of-the-century pieced cotton quilt worked in a Double Nine-Patch on point setting, with deep indigo and cream nine-patch blocks alternating with solid tan setting squares printed in a fine sprigged ground. The indigo patches draw from a varied scrap bag of period dress and shirting prints — polka dots, stripes, florals, geometric figures, and the small-scale "snowflake" and discharge prints typical of 1880s–1900s indigo cottons. Hand-pieced and hand-quilted throughout with even running stitches, finished with a narrow indigo print binding.

The reverse is backed in a single coordinating indigo stripe-and-floral print, lending the quilt a reversible quality. The Double Nine-Patch was a workhorse pattern of American quiltmaking — pieced by farm wives and town women alike — and the disciplined navy-and-cream palette places this example firmly in the indigo-blue revival that swept American quilts between the Centennial and the First World War. Catalogued by the consignor as "Antique Indigo/Tan Quilt, c. 1900."

CONDITION

Good with age-appropriate wear and overall discoloration to the cream and tan grounds. Scattered light staining to some of the lighter patches and a mothball odor consistent with long storage. Piecing and quilting remain intact; no major losses or open seams noted.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• 72" × 74"
• Pattern: Double Nine-Patch, on-point set
• Construction: Hand-pieced, hand-quilted
• Materials: Cotton top, batting, and backing
• Period: c. 1900