Unusual in its lack of oriental motifs, this crazy quilt is instead replete with floral designs—some hand painted, others appliquéd or embroidered in silk or ribbon work, and still others woven or printed onto luxurious fabrics. Minnie Minderlein, the quilt’s probable maker, was a dressmaker, an occupation that would have given her access to the exceptionally beautiful woven fabrics seen in her quilt. Her decision to concentrate on floral motifs may have been influenced by the Victorian preoccupation with flowers, including the concept of assigning a specific meaning to each bloom or branch. The significance of each flower varied according to the source, one of which was The Language of Flowers, illustrated by Kate Greenaway. The Language and Sentiment of Flowers by James D. McCabe was another.