Art Institute of Chicago

"Garfield and Arthur" Quilt

Possibly Annie Ensminger Kready (American, 1871-1956) or Louisa Ensminger (American, 1850-1899)

Date: c. 1880
Medium: Pieced quilt; printed, cotton plain and twill weave fabrics; printed, cotton plain weave handkerchief
Culture: Pennsylvania
Department: Textiles
Institution: Art Institute of Chicago

Much like the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition Quilt in our collection, this quilt features a promotional handkerchief. Here the handkerchief, which is placed at the center of a four-pointed star, highlights the 1880 presidential ticket of James A. Garfield and Chester B. Arthur, who did indeed win the election (although Garfield was assassinated a mere six months after taking office). The pattern and color of the design appear celebratory, but in the late nineteenth century, campaigns and elections were beset by problems similar to those of the present day, including factionalized parties, close election results, and discussion and debate comparing the popular vote to the Electoral College, as well as uncompelling and scandalous candidates.

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Object type: AAT300014063

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Résultats des élections présidentielles pour le département du Rhône le 13 décembre 1848, et mort de la République.