Online Collections Database

Explore our Collections

Historic Costume | Fine and Decorative Arts

Welcome to our Online Collections Database! Below you will find a searchable database showcasing images and information regarding tens of thousands of items in our online collection. Search using search terms, key words, object names, or names of historical figures to locate specific items, or, peruse at random to enjoy the breadth of collections available for view.

As we continue to digitize collections at GCV&M, more objects will populate this new virtual resource. Please continue to check back, and reach out with any questions!

Questions? Contact our Curatorial Department at (585) 294-8240 or email jjohnson@gcv.org. Interested in donating an object to the collections at GCV&M? Click here to learn more. 

Quilt

Object/Artifact

Entirely hand-stitched quilt. Backed with gold-colored surah. The center has a lavishly embroidered spray of flowers. The date 1887 and “Mother” is stitched on a tan satin diamond, superimposed upon a maroon velvet cross. The same velvet forms a wide border with dark blue satin squares in the corners. The main area is made of loosely-formed squares composed of scraps of expensive, fashionable fabrics including plush, matelassé, Brocade, voided velvet, cisele velvet, pekin, damasse, and a few printed silks, along with the more usual taffetas, grosgrains, velvets and satins. The edges are all stitched with elaborate borders, and many pieces have exquisite floral sprays executed in fine silk thread. Others are done with thicker thread. Some are large and complex; a few are simple, perhaps done by a lesser hand. There is a magnificent cup and saucer, vase, moon, heart, and high buttoned boot depicted as well. The most amazing one may be the scenic vignette imitating greeting card layouts. An outstanding tour de force of embroidery and fabric selection.

G2002.056

Bruce and Susan Greene Costume Collection

Textiles

1887

70 in

80 in

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