Four Centuries of Quilts: The Colonial Williamsburg Collection (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780300207361)

An exquisite and authoritative look at four centuries of quilts and quilting from around the world

Quilts are among the most utilitarian of art objects, yet the best among them possess a formal beauty that rivals anything made on canvas. This landmark book, drawn from the world-renowned collection of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, highlights the splendor and craft of quilts with more than 300 superb color images and details. Fascinating essays by two noted scholars trace the evolution of quilting styles and trends as they relate to the social, political, and economic issues of their time.

The collection includes quilts made by diverse religious and cultural groups over 400 years and across continents, from the Mediterranean, England, France, America, and Polynesia. The earliest quilts were made in India and the Mediterranean for export to the west and date to the late 16th century. Examples from 18th- to 20th-century America, many made by Amish and African-American quilters, reflect the multicultural nature of American society and include boldly colored and patterned worsteds and brilliant pieced and appliqu馘 works of art.

Grand in scope and handsomely produced, Four Centuries of Quilts: The Colonial Williamsburg Collection is sure to be one of the most useful and beloved references on quilts and quilting for years to come.

Published in association with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Exhibition Schedule:

Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
(06/07/14-May 2016)

Author: Linda Baumgarten, Kimberly Smith Ivey
ISBN-10: 0300207360
ISBN-13: 9780300207361
Publisher: Yale University Press
Language: English
Published: 10/28/2014
Pages: 356
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 4.41lbs
Size: 10.95h x 9.00w x 1.27d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 04/01/2015 pg. 1301