A friend of mine has this quilt dated 1907-1909 and I was curious as to what the symbol means. She says good luck or good living. Just wondering if anyone has any info on it? TIA
The letters F (or F and E) have been artfully combined on your quilt, to create the ancient s.wastika symbol, which generally means "good life" or "to do good." The design goes back at least 10,000 years, and has been most often associated with the Hindus (the word s.wastika is a Sanskrit word.) But, many cultures, including the ancient Greeks, Chinese, Tibetans, Celts and also Native American groups used it.
Unfortunately, the s.wastika design now carries a very negative connotation because it was appropriated by the N.azi's, even though they modified it somewhat. Since your quilt pre-dates the N.azi regime, its s.wastika design was intended to convey a life-affirming message, NOT one of death and destruction.
Symbols are certainly very personal. But one can really look at the history behind them, to learn and change the relationship. The symbol that Hitler used was fanned out and rotating the opposing direction from the Native American symbol of luck. (makes one think?)
The N.azi version of the s.wastika is virtually identical to the Native American "running log" or "swirling log" design. They both run right-handed, except that the N.azi version is angled at 45 degrees.
Reportedly, after learning of the N.azi atrocities, the Navaho disavowed and discontinued use of their ancient s.wastika design.
It was certainly a terrible time in history, and sad that the similarity of the quilt brings out the feelings it does to some. However, I would have no issue with displaying the quilt, as it could be a teaching moment for anyone with questions about it.
This is one type of design. I don't think that it is having any meaning. It is just a design that the designer have made, as we are watching in bedsheets and dresses different types of such designs and symbols are designed.This message has been edited. Last edited by: stephenmiller,
Originally posted by mountainbeach: A friend of mine has this quilt dated 1907-1909 and I was curious as to what the symbol means. She says good luck or good living. Just wondering if anyone has any info on it? TIA
MountainBeach, do I see the names of the quilters next to each block?
Who would want to proudly display that quilt on their bed? It sends shivers down my spine. Ugh!
Arepo, OP said this quilt was handmade in the early 1900s - long before WW2. More often designs mistakenly thought to depict an Na zi emblem date back EONS... from other cultures & peoples living on many contents .This message has been edited. Last edited by: tessa89,
Posts: 5016 | Location: NE of S.F. | Registered: Apr 13, 2006
