Hearth rug

Detail of circle or sunburst in a corner of the hearth rug.

Detail of hearth rug. Flower, leaves, and concentric circles.

Detail of hearth rug, pink and green bird.

Detail of hearth rug, brown buck and flying dove.

The exuberance of this design undoubtedly expresses the personality of its unknown maker. Combining the technique of shirring with more traditional embroidery stitches, the maker depicted birds and various animals on her decorative hearth rug, which must have been a focal point in her home.

Hearth rug
Probably made in New England; 1815‒25
Wool on linen
1964.1777 Bequest of Henry Francis du Pont

Needlework has historically been central to a young woman’s education. The Diligent Needle: Instrument of Profit, Pleasure, and Ornament features the plain and fancy sewing of skilled women.

This exhibition was curated by Linda Eaton and was on view in the Winterthur Galleries from August 2014 to July 2015.

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library

Hearth rug

Hearth rugProbably made in New England; 1815‒25Wool on linen1964.1777 Bequest of Henry Francis du Pont

Hearth rug
Probably made in New England; 1815‒25
Wool on linen
1964.1777 Bequest of Henry Francis du Pont