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Patchwork Coverlet
Breaks Record
at Auction House
Two telephone bidders drove the selling price of an antique coverlet to a record-breaking £29,640–approximately $55,500 US–last June at Sotheby's Auction House in London, England.
Buyers' identities are kept confidential, but the seller, Kerry Taylor of Kerry Taylor Auctions, confirms the piece was purchased by a museum in the United States.
When Taylor first saw the coverlet, signed by Ann West and dated 1820, she recognized it as a rare example of early English handwork, but she didn't expect that it would sell for more than $18,500, an amount still considered high for a quilt or bedcover. However, it was in surprisingly fresh condition, given that her client, who inherited the coverlet more than 25 years ago, had kept it folded in a trunk stored in his garage. He sold the piece to pay for himself, his family, and his friends to attend the 2006 World Cup soccer series.
In her unique folk-art style, Ann West combined patches from the wool of military uniforms with her detailed embroidery to depict both Bible stories and daily life in England during the early nineteenth century. Biblical scenes include the Garden of Eden, Daniel in the lions' den, and Jacob's ladder. Among the images on other blocks are red-coated soldiers fighting with swords and children flying a kite.
Kerry Taylor Auctions regularly offers quilts and other textiles. +44-020-8676-4600; kerrytaylorauctions.com
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Untitled Quilt, 87" x 96", 1820, by Ann West. This rare piece of English patchwork and applique sold at auction for approximately $55,500.
Photo courtesy Kerry Taylor Auctions.
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