"Monk's Belt;" coverlet; overshot; c. 1850; Pennsylvania

"Monk's Belt;" coverlet; overshot; c. 1850; Pennsylvania

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Description
This red and blue, cotton and wool, overshot coverlet was woven in Pennsylvania in a variation of the "Monks belt" pattern. This coverlet was likely woven in the mid-nineteenth century in Pennsylvania. There is a red, crocheted fringe along all four sides of the coverlet which is probably a later decorative addition. The fringe was attached with cotton sewing thread. The coverlet was used in the study of Dr. Chevalier Lawrence Jackson (1865-1858) of the Philadelphia area, until he died in 1957. Dr. Jackson was a pioneer of laryngology and is commonly referred to as the father of endoscopy. Jackson was born in the Pittsburg area and practiced and taught medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia. The coverlet is constructed of two panels, woven as one length, cut, and seamed to create the finished width. The coverlet measures 79.25 inches by 54.75 inches.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
coverlet, overshot
coverlet
date made
19th century
c. 1850
maker
unknown
place made
United States: Pennsylvania
Physical Description
monk's belt (overall pattern)
red, blue (overall color)
cotton, wool (overall material)
ID Number
TE.T16399
catalog number
T16399.000
See more items in
Home and Community Life: Textiles
Coverlets
Textiles
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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