Diamond Field Quilt by Susan McCord, circa 1890

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Artifact Overview

This popular patchwork pattern is called Diamond Field. In Susan McCord's hands it becomes a marvel of workmanship and design -- tiny pieces of different fabrics expertly arranged and sewn together. The quilt top is evenly faded and the batting thin -- it has seen much use and washing. Perhaps the quiltmaker or a family member slept under this quilt.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Quilt

Date Made

circa 1890

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

73.120.5

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Cotton (Textile)
Muslin
Batting

Technique

Piecing
Quilting
Hand sewing

Color

Red
Pink (Color)
Blue
White (Color)

Dimensions

Width: 79 in
Height: 74 in

Inscriptions

Back: PREMIUM / FINE / SHEETINGS / LL / (printed eagle)

Specifications

Pattern: Diamond Field
Number of Pieces (top): 95 complete diamonds, 29 half diamonds, 2 quarter diamonds
Fabric (top): Cotton florals, printed and woven plaids, checks, and stripes, seaweed or parsley prints
Piecing Technique: Hand pieced
Number of Pieces (back): 3
Fabric (back): Cotton muslin
Stitches per Inch: 6-8
Quilting Pattern: Concentric circles often called Rising Sun or Fan
Quilting Technique: Hand quilted
Binding: Turned in
Batting: Thin cotton batting
Note(s): This pattern is also known as Rainbow Tile or Martha Washington's Flower Garden