A Pendant
mid- 19th century
Medium
metalwork
Classification
metalwork
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors
Accession Number
1901-39-739
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
### A Pendant Nestled in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's, *A Pendant* is a example of mid-19th metalwork, crafted during a time when American artisans were blending European influences with emerging industrial techniques. Pendants like this one were cherished personal accessories, often worn as lockets or necklaces to hold mementos such as miniature portraits, locks of hair, or love letters—symbols of sentimentality in the Victorian era. Acquired through the generosity of various donors, this piece highlights the museum's commitment to preserving everyday artistry that captured intimate...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...