Garden of Eden quilt, Olive Batchelor Wells (1822–1893)

The Bible often served as inspiration for 19th-century quilters. In this magnificent quilt by Olive Batchelor Wells, she gives her personal vision of the Garden of Eden story. Wells chose the moment in the narrative when Adam and Eve were banished from paradise to be the focal point of her quilt, and surrounded these figures with fruits, flowers, and stars. The variety of fabrics and techniques used also attest to Wells’ creativity. Needlework created and used within the domestic sphere was one area in which women were encouraged to give their imaginations free reign.