Coverlet Detail

c. 1937

Ruth M. Barnes

Associated Names
Ruth M. Barnes

Artist, American, 1880 - 1954

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.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor and graphite on paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 25.2 x 33.6 cm (9 15/16 x 13 1/4 in.)
    Original IAD Object: 10" wide; 8 1/2" long

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.591


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1970

  • Hornung, Clarence P., Treasury of American Design, New York: 1970, p. 543, no. 2011.

Wikidata ID

Q64630147

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