This rare, one of a kind quilt dates to the early 1800's and features a whimsical folk art design of birds and whales!

Similar to early samplers, this one seems to tell a story. I love the whimsical and lavish flora designs that depict water and land flowers. Perhaps the maker is from a ship captain's family?

There is a center medallion urn, with florals and birds, Mother whales with their calves swim nearby.

Large red accents stand out with stars and flowers and leaves.

This large quilt measures 86 x 76 1/2"

It is expertly hand appliqued at 12 stitches per inch.

Lightly handquilted with thin cotton batting. Hand bound.  There is only handwork noted on this beautiful quilt.

This quilt is early and not without damage.  There are several old patches, very well done that meld well and look original.  There is light age spotting. There are a few tiny pops (fabric has broken) in the top appliques, that do not go thru the quilt.  The background has mellowed to a light tan thru out.  The brown vines and leaves were once a vibrant green (imagine the beauty it must have been, oh my!)  but the green(a fugitive dye that didn't last) has faded completely away to a rich cocoa color.

I do not have any provenance on this quilt. It has been in my private collection for years.  I hope it will go to a good home (or museum) that can adequately preserve and display this fabulous, rare quilt!