Pakistani Ralli or Patchwork Quilt

Yellow zigzags with a black and white pulse.

Cotton scraps from Pakistan, sewn in the mid to late 20th century, became this ralli, or patchwork quilt. Quilts like this are often made from recycled cloth, layered and stitched through for warmth. Bands of yellow, red and black zigzag across the center, with black and white squares set between them. An orange border frames the field. The orange border has a slight lean, a gentle mark of handwork. The pattern is dense and tightly packed.

About 74 by 48 inches. Hot colors, steady hands.