Early’s Witney Four Point Wool Trapper Blanket

This vintage wool blanket from Early's Witney Point is in remarkably great shape. The measurements and sponge type stiffness lead me to believe it has been stored away during its entire existence, and never used or washed. It has been stored caringly, as it holds no mustiness or dusty traces. I have it listed as new without tags due to the beautiful condition it’s in. It’s a cozy addition to any room. The rectangular shape measures 74" x 91", with a striped pattern in multicolor, and four point stripes on the side. Made of 100% wool, it is perfect for winter insulation. The blanket is an original piece, not a licensed reproduction, and has no modifications. It is a trapper blanket with a vintage style, perfect for collectors or those who appreciate unique pieces. When attempting to date the label I came across this helpful site that showed this example as one of the earliest ones depicted. This excerpt is from TheWitneyBlanketStory.org.uk Witney had first supplied the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) with woven goods as early as 1681 but the town did not become a major provider to it until the 1730s, when James Empson started receiving regular HBC orders [8]. One of the earliest definite records we have for the supply of point blankets comes in December 1779, when five hundred pairs of 'pointed' blankets were ordered by the HBC from the firm of Thomas Empson (James' son). The demand for points then seems to have increased rapidly (continued in article).