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Large Authentic Antique 1880s Quilt Top Ships at Sea

$195.00

From the farmlands of York County Pennsylvania, this authentic early 1880s antique quilt top features a wonderful “Ships at Sea”design and great fabrics of the late 19th century.

Out of stock

Gorgeous “Ships at Sea” with lots of indigo blue and other prints of the late 19th century, the indigo ships are mostly in one area, with the side and bottom using different colors.

Features a “Humility Block” (see explanation below)

Measures a large 90 x 90″!

Blocks measure 6″

Pieced by treadle machine

Crisp, never used or washed.

Near mint condition. , no wear, some light age spotting only, see photos

A wonderful piece to add to your collection!

Price includes free USA shipping, International customers, please contact us.

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A humility block in a quilt refers to a block or piece in a quilt that contains an intentional mistake or imperfection, such as a rotated block, mismatched fabric, or odd placement, based on the belief that only God is perfect and creating a flawless quilt might be seen as prideful. This concept is often tied to quilting folklore, particularly associated with Amish quilters, though historians have largely debunked it as a myth with no solid evidence. The earliest reference to this idea dates to 1949, and many quilt historians suggest that what might be perceived as a humility block is more likely an accidental error or an economic choice, like using leftover fabric. Some quilters embrace the term to describe unintentional mistakes that add character, while others intentionally include a quirky block for artistic or personal reasons.

What is an antique quilt top?

An antique quilt top is

the patchwork and/or appliqued front of a quilt that was never completed with batting and backing. These unfinished projects are highly collectible and valued for their historic fabrics, craftsmanship, and patterns. 

Why antique quilt tops are collectible
The Significance of Authentic Antique Quilt Tops
  • Historic fabrics: Quilt tops are time capsules, often containing fabrics that reflect the era in which they were made, such as feed sacks from the 1930s or early indigo prints from the 19th century.
  • Unfinished story: Many of these tops have a unique story, never finished due to the original maker running out of time, money, or losing interest.
  • A project to finish: Modern quilters often purchase antique quilt tops to finish them in the style of the original period or with a contemporary twist.
  • Historical and aesthetic value: They can be used as is, for decorative purposes like a tablecloth or wall hanging, or taken apart for use in other projects.