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Antiques
Quilts and Textiles: A Price Guide to Functional and Fashionable Cloth
Comforts by Bobbie Aug and Gerald Roy Antique Quilts and Textiles is a comprehensive guide to collecting antique textiles, compiled by quilt historians and appraisers Bobbie Aug and Gerald Roy. This information is intended to guide and educate the inexperienced buyer about currently popular collectibles and provide a resource for appraisers and others interested in current market values. There is a discussion about collecting textiles in general and also of safe storage practices. The history of quilted textiles is as old as recorded history itself and evidence has been found in burial sites thousands of years old. There has long been a history of collecting textiles and it is enjoying a surge in popularity today. It is also of interest that the authors did not use any internet sources for arriving at values in this book, preferring traditional methods. The history of each category of textile is discussed. The quilts are nicely photographed, with close-ups of distinguishing characteristics. In addition to the price, each quilt is dated and described in detail. The examples range from primitive scrap quilts with feed sack backs to sophisticated appliqué and pieced patterns in excellent condition. Doll and crib quilts, whole cloth bedcovers, pillow covers, quilt tops, comforts (tied tops), woven bedcovers, bed linens, towels, and table linens are included. Clothing collections are also illustrated. Antique children’s clothing appears to be growing in value. Quilted petticoats and aprons were often beautifully detailed and are desired by collectors. As artifacts of our cultural past, aprons are widely collected and exhibited in historical museums. Adult, as well as infant and children’s bonnets are becoming more valued by collectors. Collecting fabric is one section of interest. Cloth has a relatively short life span which contributes to the scarcity and demand. Because many countries copied prints from each other, and some companies reprinted designs from decades earlier, the authors advises caution and the need for a reputable source. French and English toile, chintz, pillar prints, and many other samples are pictured, as well as 20th century reproduction prints. A variety of cotton prints, Garibaldi or Robe prints, political and patriotic prints, and hand woven rugs are provided. With forty years of experience collecting, judging, cataloging, and curating antique quilt collections, the authors have a wealth of information to share. They have co-authored over 10 books encompassing various aspects of quilts and quilt making. Both authors are on the board of directors for the American Quilter’s Society Appraiser Certification Committee. Review by Diana Norris |
