Coverlet Detail

Ruth M. Barnes

National Gallery of Art

The image is a woven piece of art divided into four quadrants with a checkerboard pattern, combining elements of rural life. The top left quadrant depicts a textured, rising or setting sun peeping from the horizon, along with a small house figure. Close to us, in the lower left quadrant, a figure operates a plow, rendered in white against a deep blue background. To the right of this scene, a red square houses a white depiction of a bird flying over two trees. On the lower right quadrant, another house is illustrated, framed by a blue background with small plants suggested below it. The weaving style features distinct, tight-knit patterns that create a tactile texture and an impression of embroidery. The overall color palette is limited to four main hues—red, blue, white, and a hint of yellow from the sun—creating a stark visual contrast, giving the impression of simplicity and rustic charm.