Pattern Name: Old Maid's Puzzle
Age: 1860s-1880s
Quilting: hand pieced and hand quilted in a diagonal pattern
Material: BEAUTIFUL madder browns and turkey red paisley, striped, and printed plaids and checks with beautiful multicolored springs of leaves and flowers throughout; green wholecloth backing
Measurements: 84x84
 
Heritage: This quilt was found in Tennessee and is one of the most pristine quilts from this era that I have ever found.  The colors are quintessentially 1860s.  There is the tell tale madder browns, leaves and floral motifs, beautiful turkey reds that were common during this time period.  The piecing itself is absolutely perfect - a masterful example of geometry.  The quilting is fine, but not fancy.  The sash and block style is also quite fetching.  The binding is a small knife-edge binding.  Overall this is a masterful example of early American quilting that I have ever seen.  This is a lovely collector's piece.
 
Condition: Overall the piece is in remarkable condition for its age.  There is little wear and very few stains.  The most staining is on the back and only barely shows up on the front of the quilt.  There is one spot that can be seen from the front, but considering the age and overall remarkable condition of the quilt, its a minimal issue. The overall strength of the quilt is amazing. There is very little wear to the quilt.  It is evident that this quilt was treasured and cared for. Overall, the quilt is strong, sturdy and really a stunner of a piece.  This would not be a quilt to wash, but to leave outside in the sun (under a clean white sheet) for a few warm, sunny days.  This is the traditional cleaning method for these types of quilts and would be appropriate here.