Tyler Coverlet c. 1942

Arthur G. Merkley created this coverlet, its date is unknown, but it speaks volumes about the intersection of craft, identity, and cultural memory. Coverlets like this one were more than just bedding; they were expressions of personal and communal identity. Born in 1855, Merkley lived through a period of immense social change, including industrialization, which threatened traditional crafts. Weaving offered a means to preserve cultural heritage while asserting individuality. The visual symmetry and the dual-tone palette create a captivating push and pull that is not only visually intriguing but also suggestive of the balanced tension between tradition and modernity. The fruit basket motif speaks to the abundance and sustenance of community, and might also nod to the labor required for its existence. This work challenges our traditional ideas about art and gender. Textiles were historically a domestic pursuit, and this piece elevates that craft into the realm of art. This coverlet is a poignant reminder of the personal stories woven into the fabric of everyday life.