Tartan of the Month - Aug 12: What do you see?

[figheadair]

Darned, with the same thread I think!

Yes indeed. And so...?

I'm game to try a bit...
Looking at the last picture, I notice the twill going in opposite direction yet the tartan matches (exept for the light blue thread). Was it simply flipped over and the sewn together? (like a mirror image)

Yes it was.

Do we know why here are holes in it? (moth holes, bullet holes, hard uses or simply busted threads?)

Possibly, (and we would know that how), yes.

As for usage, could it have been used as a cushionned seat in a carriage or an old open car? (meaning out in the opened air and not indoors) Maybe even under a saddle?

Getting there. Think form but as to function - who knows.

[xman]

Yes indeed. And so...?

No, not sew, darned. Not quite the same thing. ;)

[be da veva]

Getting there. Think form but as to function - who knows.

Not quite getting the meaning of the phrase. Think form as in think shape?

[figheadair]

Not quite getting the meaning of the phrase. Think form as in think shape?

Yes, you were on the right lines but had just over run with the idea.

[David Thorpe]

A saddle cover or blanket?

[xman]

Right, the tabs on top and bottom would appear to fit into interior corners like that of a sofa.

The darning implies that the piece was in use and not just a museum piece. Why mend an artefact?

[figheadair]

A saddle cover or blanket?

No and yes but no but.

[figheadair]

Right, the tabs on top and bottom would appear to fit into interior corners like that of a sofa.

Getting there.

The darning implies that the piece was in use and not just a museum piece. Why mend an artefact?

Absolutely.

[figheadair]

As this is the last TOM let me return to the basics as a reminder. When encountering any artefact try and avoid speculation and ask yourself:

What - is it now, and in the case of tartan has it been altered or its use changed? (this is the crux and should include all the visual clues such as setting, weave, colours etc).

Where - is it and does this have a bearing on its origins?

When - does it date to?

Who - owned it or what else is known about it?

The gaps in what you can determine will be the basis of your questions for further investigation.

[xman]

Then tell us dear sir, where is it found?

It looks to be lighter weight fabric so perhaps intended as upholstery (curtains?) in the first place.