Miao Applique Quilt

While festive clothing and baby carriers remain a common feature of daily life in Miao culture, the creation of decorative quilts has declined due to mass-produced blankets. These bedcovers were typically a part of a dowry, and were made of scraps from old clothing and fabric. They were used to decorate wedding beds and also welcome the birth of a child.

This piece is covered in scalloped shapes, similar to a ruyi, which is a ceremonial talisman that symbolizes granted wishes. The appliqué fabrics are shades of indigo, which is common in this region, and a deep rust red. The ground is a natural colored cotton and is pieced together in squares, with the appliqué creating four smaller squares within that. The corners of the squares come together to create the ruyi shape, and in the middle sits a four- petal flower.