For May's Quilt of the Month, we've selected this incredible piece from English-born quiltmaker Charles Pratt. 

Made predominantly from silk, this biblically themed quilt is comprised of 30,400 squares each measuring 1/2 inch. This quilt was likely made sometime during the last decade of his life. Though there are conflicting accounts, our records indicate he died in 1941 and continued quilting up until his death. 

According to information compiled by the Quilt Index, Pratt made quilts for more than half a century and seemed to take great interest in showing his work at state fairs and competitions. A news article from the Texas-based Brownsville Herald in 1932 indicated Pratt had more than 390 prizes for quilts at the time. A Philadelphia Inquirer story from 1940, referenced by the Quilt Index, said Pratt had won 450 prize ribbons. 

Though the age and materials of Pratt's quilts make them difficult to show, many other award-winning state fair quilts will soon be on display at the International Quilt Museum. 

"Best of Show: State Fair Quilts" will be showing in the Von Seggern Gallery from May 10 through Dec. 14. This exhibition, organized by Lincoln quilter Bonnie Kucera, features selected Best of Show quilts from the Nebraska State Fair over the past three decades.

Join us during our opening hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. We are located at 1523 N. 33rd Street in Lincoln, Nebraska.

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