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1900 - 1920 Frances Kaleipapipi Char's Hawaiian Applique Quilt

Object Details

Description
This Hawaiian appliqué quilt, in the “Nightblooming Cereus” pattern, belonged to Frances Kaleipapipi Clinton Akana Char. It was donated in her memory by her daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Akana. The quilt was given to Frances as her Hawaiian name, Kaleipapipi, means the "corral to hold cattle." The night-blooming-cereus plant ( Hylocereus undatus ) may have come from Mexico (or South America) and grows over corral walls. When the flowers bloom in the evening between June and October, it appears as though the corral is a lei of cereus flowers around the cattle. Frances Kaleipapipi Char enjoyed this Hawaiian quilt for many years. According to the donor, it was always atop her bed.
This quilt is an example of the Hawaiian appliqué technique, achieved through folding the fabric into eighths and then cutting the design. The quilting outlines the flower appliqué and radiates outward in an echo pattern, quilted 7 stitches per inch. The design was inspired by the night-blooming-cereus. It is said that originally the lava rock wall of the Punahou School in Honolulu was planted with this type of cactus by a Mrs. Bingham about 1836. The beautiful white flowers attracted many admirers who then took cuttings, such that now the species is established throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
Location
Currently not on view
Data Source
National Museum of American History
owner
Char, Frances Kaleipapipi Clinton
maker
unknown
date made
1900-1920
Credit Line
Gift of Elizabeth A. Alkana
Physical Description
fabric, cotton (overall material)
thread, cotton (overall material)
filling, wool (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 87 in x 70 in; 221 cm x 177 cm
Object Name
quilt

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