Crazy quilts, like this magnificent quilt titled “My Crazy Dream,” became a popular trend in quilting due to concurrent social, cultural, and aesthetic events and trends.  One major influence was the introduction of Japanese art and culture, particularly as interpreted by Westerners. 

Crazy quilts were often used as ornamental throws. They were most frequently fashioned out of fine silk taffetas, satins, brocades and velvets. Mary M. Hernandred Ricard began her piece in 1877 and finished the top in 1912. There is no information as to why the piece was never completed; basting stitches in the border are still visible and no backing was applied.