Pakistani Ralli or Patchwork Quilt

Purple, tan and cream chevrons, pointing in one direction like a quiet arrow.

This ralli, or patchwork quilt, was made in cotton in Pakistan in the mid to late 20th century. Rallis are commonly associated with Sindh and are pieced from small scraps for use as bedding and floor covers. The field is a grid of small squares in purple, lavender, brown and yellow, arranged into a broad chevron that points left. A brown band frames it and a lilac edge runs at the sides. The palette is subdued, earthy and unusual, with soft quilted texture.

About 82 by 50 inches. Handsome and moody, it suits a library better than a nursery.