An extraordinary late 19th century scripture quilt / coverlet incorporating printed biblical panels by Robert Mimpriss, the Victorian educational reformer and textile printer known for his illustrated scripture teaching systems.
Constructed from numerous individually hand-stitched printed panels on a vivid red ground, the quilt combines biblical verses with engraved illustrative scenes, creating a striking patchwork of text, imagery and devotional instruction. The bold typography and graphic layout give the piece an unexpectedly modern visual quality, somewhere between folk art, textile art and institutional ephemera.
Scripture quilts and coverlets of this type were used throughout the 19th century in hospitals, religious institutions and domestic settings, intended to offer spiritual comfort and moral guidance during periods of illness or distress. The V&A Museum holds related examples.
A particularly large and visually impressive survivor, retaining excellent decorative impact and displaying beautifully either as a wall hanging or textile installation.
England, late 19th century.
160 cm x 248 cm.
Condition commensurate with age, with wear, fading and minor imperfections consistent with use.