Esther Emily Lee
Fancy Quilt
Dimensions: 163.2 x 161.29 cm
Medium: fabric, silk, and velvet
Date Created: 1890-1900
While the quilt is labeled “Fancy Quilt,” these quilts are more commonly known as “Crazy Quilts” due to the abstract design and colors. Esther Emily Leslie produced this quilt circa 1890-1900 as a home decoration. Little is known about the artist, but her work is representative of crazy quilts of this era and women’s role in the production of textiles. The design and fabric choice of this quilt is prevalent during this time period. They tend to be made of silk and velvet fabric and have a darker color scheme influenced by the Victorian Era. Women would often use scraps of fabric to make these quilts, contributing to the design’s abstractness. The preservation of the quilt is representative of the purpose and importance of fancy quilts. They were often hung up on display and passed down through generations as a family heirloom. Women were the only ones to engage in this tradition. A good wife would not only care for the home and the children but also decorate the home with textiles.
