Emma Civey Stahl
This one-of-a-kind pictorial quilt tells two parallel stories. Three of its circular appliquéd scenes depict soldiers from the American Civil War (1861–1865), a conflict still vivid in public memory at the time the quilt was made. The other three circles portray spirited episodes of women’s rights activism. In one, a reformer boldly walks away from her husband and child, a "WOMAN'S RIGHTS" banner slung over her shoulder. In another, she drives a horse-drawn cart, presumably en route to the rally shown in a third vignette, where she passionately addresses a visibly intimidated audience. The quilt maker’s humorous portrayal of one of the most pressing social movements of the late 19th century invites reflection on her own stance toward the cause.
P.S. Moved by this bold storytelling in stitches? Discover more powerful works by and about women in our Women in Art 50 Postcards Set.
P.P.S. Quilt art can be truly fascinating. Discover the powerful stories stitched into fabric by Harriet Powers, an African American artist who wove her faith and heritage into every quilt.