Rarely does one fine a true Baltimore Album Crib quilt. This fine example has all the bells and whistles. Each of the four different blocks is typical of those found in in what is probably the most desirable of early/mid 19th century quilt genres, the Baltimore Album. In addition to flowers, the top left urn has a lovely bird perched on a leaf. The upper right cornucopia has flowers; fruit and a butterfly. The lower left has the sliced watermelon with a knife seen, in my experience, almost exclusively in Baltimore Albums. The seeds are finely embroidered on a pink fabric with a tiny pattern to give the appearance of watermelon flesh. The lower right lattice basket block has a bird and butterfly in addition to flowers. The four blocks are framed in a red border that has the appearance of winding ribbon. Why the maker did not quilt this masterpiece is a mystery. Measurements are 41 inches square. Condition is excellent. Made probably late 1840's.
