Written by an art historian and a professor of textiles, this text examines the improvisational nature of the American quilting tradition. The main part of the volume is devoted to a catalogue of quilts, featuring full-page color photographs of 48 quilts from the International Quilt Study Center's collection at the U. of Nebraska-Lincoln. Dialogues between the editors discussing the artistic innovations demonstrated in each quilt are presented on the facing pages, along with basic information such as pattern name, quilt maker name, probable date, and predominant fiber type. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)