Crazy
Maker unknown
About 1880-1900
Probably made in Florida
Silk; hand-quilting, embroidery and applique
1997.007.0360

From ancient Roman palliums to rectangular palls of the Middle Ages to embroidered and quilted casket covers in rural Black communities and Appalachia, the desire to decorate the bleakness of a casket extends beyond floral arrangements. Most likely made in Florida between 1880-1900, this Crazy quilt coffin cover follows these aforementioned traditions, but is also typifies the Victorian era from which it emerged. The material and techniques are akin to Crazy quilts, the regularity and repeated motifs defy classifying our October of the Month quilt coffin cover as a true crazy quilt