Emeline Ludington Placemat
Special edition developed in collaboration with The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Inspired by Emeline Travis Ludington’s (American, 1820–1887) Floral Appliqué Quilt (ca. 1850), this placemat offers a vibrant expression of florals, echoing the artistry of generational textile traditions. Layers of texture and hand-appliquéd blooms are reimagined for modern life through precise printing on a durable woven textile that wipes clean.
| Dimensions | 15" Round |
|---|---|
| Use | Indoor/Outdoor |
| Custom | Not Available |
| Materials | Terrastrand yarns with 25% renewable vegetable content. Free of phthalates. |
| Origin | USA |
About the original in the Met's permanent collection: In the mid-19th century, when Ludington made her outstanding Floral Appliqué Quilt in Carmel, New York (a town about fifty miles north of New York City), the florid and intricate Rococo Revival style was in full bloom. The grapevines and appliquéd flowers entwined into wreaths stitched onto the surface are reminiscent of the decoration found carved into the rich rosewood backs of high-style New York furniture of the same era. While many bed quilts are quite modest objects meant for everyday use, this one would have been considered stylish and sophisticated when it was created. Its exceptionally good condition reinforces the notion that it was meant to be a "best" quilt, taken out only on special occasions to beautify its maker's home.
Ludington had an ambitious artistic vision for her quilt, laying out and stitching a stunning overall design and adding an unusual scalloped finishing detail to the edges. Ludington was married to a banker, George, and was the mother of six children. Her quiltmaking skill is undocumented beyond this piece.
TO CLEAN: Simply wipe with soap, water and a soft sponge or cloth. Scrub stubborn stains with a soft bristle-brush and a bleach-based cleanser.
