Applique Bedspread c. 1940

This is a rendering of an Applique Bedspread by Rose Campbell-Gerke, who lived from 1882 to 1982. The image gives us a clear sense of the original object’s folksy, hand-made aesthetic. The bedspread’s design combines a sailing ship with flowers, vines, and a rainbow, and the motto seems to be about faith, love, and hope. Textiles like this were often collaborative efforts within families or communities, particularly in rural areas. Such artifacts offer rich insights into social and cultural life beyond the traditional domains of fine art. The image serves as a kind of documentation, fixing the object in time. To fully understand the significance of this bedspread, we might consult local historical societies, genealogical records, and oral histories. Each of these resources would help us understand what values were considered most important in the community where the bedspread was made.