Swedish Folk Weavings for Marriage, Carriage, and Home is an exhibition of rare, historical, and artful carriage cushions, chair cushions, and bed covers woven personally by or for women for their dowries and/or for the household. Many have inscribed dates ranging from 1766 to 1837. Such textiles were used on or displayed for special occasions and were a significant form of decoration for the typical household. The design elements and patterns reflect the influence of centuries of trade since the Viking era. Visitors will see colorful geometric patterns, exotic birds, real and mythical creatures, religious depictions, crowns, floral themes, and even patterns from Roman mosaics. Swedish Folk Weavings for Marriage, Carriage, and Home was developed in collaboration with Wendel and Diane Swan, both of whom are of Swedish descent, and whose collection is primarily featured in the exhibition.
From the age of the Vikings to the settlers of the New Sweden Colony (1638-1655), to contemporary issues in Scandinavian society, the American Swedish Historical Museum will take you back in time and across the sea to learn the stories of Swedes in America.
