Washington at Mt. Vernon

NameQuilt

Designer Edward Larson (American)

Maker Waynie Thomas (American)

Date1978

Place madeJane, Missouri, United States, North America

MediumCotton

Dimensions40 3/16 × 32 7/8 × 1 3/16 in. (102 × 83.5 × 3 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, gift of Joan Vernick, A.2018.48.1

Terms

value (economic concept)
value (economic concept)

Object numberA.2018.48.1

ProvenanceMade by Edward Larson and Waynie Thomas; Owned by Margaret and John Robson who donated it to a benefit auction held by Ann Lawrence; Donor purchased quilt at auction from Ann Lawrence in Santa Fe. It is not clear how the quilt ended up in Margaret and John Robson’s collection. A note in Joan Vernick’s paperwork states that the quilt “hung in an Administration Building in Washington D.C.” before being brought to Santa Fe.

DescriptionPictorial quilt in solids and calico prints depicting a scene from Mount Vernon. At top is a large multicolored bird representing an American eagle that has outstretched wings and a shield-shaped body. Arrows and ivy leaves are clasped in its outstretched talons. Above it, a banner is outstretched, which reads "Washington at Mt. Vernon." George is mounted on a rearing horse at bottom proper right. He holds a spyglass in his hand. Below the eagle is a depiction of Mount Vernon. To the right of Mt. Vernon is a stylized tree and a woman (Martha) in green is located below with a handkerchief waving in her hand. In the sky is a dove with an olive branch and a red bird. Framing the scene are ivy-like vines and branches with groups of small red fruit and yellow butterflies. Maker and designer's names and the place made are embroidered in the scalloped hem area. The reverse is a solid green cotton.