May 16 through September 12, 2021
Sleep Tight! features outstanding bedcovers and bed curtains from the Museum’s collection. Historically, textiles for the bed were among the most valuable goods in the home. Their large scale demanded hours of work but also offered a canvas for remarkable creativity.
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- Japanese, Futon Cover, late 19th century, resist dyed cotton plain weave. Purchase: Gift of Kate Fowler Merle Smith by Exchange, 1987. (1987.25)
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- Deborah Wilhemina Kauffman (Pennsylvania-German, 1883 1968), Quilt, 1900-05, cotton, pieced and quilted. Gift of Milton Sonday, 2007. (2007.21.2)
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- Uzbek, Suzani, 19th century, cotton plain weave with silk couching and chain stitch embroidery, silk and linen plain and rib weave binding. Gift of Kate Fowler Merle Smith, 1974. (1974.79.7)
This exhibition brings together textile masterpieces such as embroidered suzanis from Central Asia, hand-painted Japanese futon covers, and Pennsylvania-German quilts, some of which have never been shown at the Museum before. Through a global selection of works, Sleep Tight! explores how community, trade, and migration all play a role in shaping traditions.
In the News
- The Morning Call: Allentown Art Museum ‘Sleep Tight!’ Explores Beauty of Bedding
- WVIA Public Media: Assistant Curator Claire McRee Speaking on Sleep Tight! and Roots
- WFMZ-69News: Allentown Art Museum sharing some surprising insights into everyday objects in 2 new exhibits
Sleep Tight! Bedcovers and Hangings from Around the World is supported through the generosity of the Bernard and Audrey Berman Foundation and the Leon C. and June W. Holt Endowment.