1933 Century of Progress Exhibition Quilt, circa 1933

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Artifact Overview

From the images of stylized Art Deco skyscrapers to dirigibles and airplanes, this appliqued quilt celebrates 1930s modernity. This quilt was likely made for entry into Sears and Roebuck's quilt contest at the 1933 Century of Progress World's Fair in Chicago. This fair gave people a look at the wonders of modern, machine-age technology and design--inspiring the public with an enticing sense of the future.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Pictorial quilt

Date Made

circa 1933

Creator Notes

Probably made in Akron, Ohio.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2004.112.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Purchased with funds from the Eleanor B. Safford Memorial Textile Fund.

Material

Cotton (Textile)

Technique

Quilting
Applique (Technique)
Piecing
Hand sewing
Embroidering
Machine sewing (Technique)

Color

Blue
White (Color)
Gray (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 66 in
Width: 84 in

Inscriptions

stiched at center on front: CHICAGO / 1933

Specifications

Pattern: 1933 Century of Progress Exhibition Quilt
Number of Pieces (top): Not noted
Fabric (top): Solid cottons (no prints)
Piecing Technique: Hand pieced and hand appliqued
Number of Pieces (back): 2
Fabric (back): Solid cotton
Stitches per Inch: 6-7
Quilting Pattern: Grid diamonds, in-the ditch, single jagged lines suggesting lightening bolts; "Chicago 1933" quilted in the center of medallion
Quilting Technique: Hand quilted
Binding: Turned in
Batting: Medium loft batting
Note(s): Quilt was made for entry into the quilt contest held by Sears and Roebuck at the Sears Pavilion of Chicago's Century of Progress (1933)
1933 Century of Progress Exhibition Quilt, circa 1933