Q9116 Embroidered Candlewick Spread

c.1820
98 x 100 inches (plus 4" netted edging on 3 sides)
New England
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Do you have either an original or reproduction early American bed? This textile is usually only found in historic books, museums or antique homes that one would tour....maybe even earlier than I am dating it. This extraordinary and rare Candlewick Spread is almost 200 years old. Because of the age, one can understand why there are so few of these in existence. Created with cotton thread on a very fine linen fabric; the handwork is breathtakingly beautiful. The body of the spread is in perfect condition. The fishnet edging needs some restoration, which we can do. At this point I have only hand washed it. The seams are joined with a running back stitch which is so tiny that at first glance it appears to be done on a sewing machine. Early hand work such as this was never meant to come apart...hence the running back stitch that can easily be mistaken for machine work. I needed to use a magnifying glass to verify this stitch. This incredible bed covering was made 30 years prior to the invention of the sewing machine. When quilts and spreads were made from this era, this sturdy stitch was used to join seams. We were not a throw away society back then and things were made to last forever. This stitch holds seams firmly together. I have taken clothing apart to use for restoration and sometimes come across this stitch. This early New England Spread has been organically hand washed and is ready for viewing in your home.