Antique Quilts

This past weekend I attended the newly reorganized Ellis Boston Antiques Show at the Cyclorama at The Boston Center for the Arts.  The show was a fantastic venue to indulge in ogling over antiques that I covet, but honestly can’t afford for the most part.  The dealers were very approachable and put forth some wonderful pieces-well presented and curated in museum like settings.

When I spotted a stunning display of quilts from a few stands away, I knew that I had to make a beeline to learn more.  Betsey Telford-Goodwin’s Rocky Mountain Quilts were a feast for the eye of extraordinary color, pattern and handcrafted textile magic.  The founder, Betsey, was warm and effusive about her collection.  She kindly agreed to my request to photograph some of her pieces and proudly spoke of the provenance of each.  Clearly, she is a specialist and curator extraordinaire.  Her collection is deep and representative of a wide variety of quilt designs with prices starting at approximately $700.

Based in charming York, Maine by appointment only, she specializes in the sale and restoration of antique quilts using fabrics from the same period to preserve the integrity and authenticity of the piece.

This is a stunning Amish Pineapple Log Cabin quilt, circa 1890-1910

Fantastic Folk Art Wool Challis Crazy Quilt, dated 1893.

Miniature Tumblers Youth Quilt, circa 1875- fun, playful, beautifully crafted.

Turquoise Silk Velvet Crazy Quilt with hand painted flowers, circa 1885.

Gorgeous Felted Wool Penny Rug, c. mid 19th century

One of my favorites!

Betsey and her assistant, Lisa Corsi, were so full of knowledge and enthusiasm that it made me mindful of the advice “do what you love, the money will follow”… I think it ought to say, do what you love, and you will be rich in happiness-money is nice too.