American Patchwork Quilt Monkey Wrench dated 1879

This striking American quilt dates from 1879, a date recorded directly on the quilt itself. Its label identifies the design as “Shoofly”; however, the pattern is more commonly recognised as the traditional Monkey Wrench block. The quilt is also inscribed with “Portsmouth,” providing a further connection to its original American history.Measuring approximately 2 metres by 2 metres, it is an impressive example of nineteenth century quiltmaking, combining historic provenance with a classic and enduring patchwork design. The quilt was purchased by SHQA in 2025 from an antique dealer on eBay.