Band
19th century
Medium
printed, dyed & painted textiles
Classification
printed, dyed & painted textiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Clara Waldeck
Accession Number
1969-170-24
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This intriguing textile piece, titled *Band*, hails from the 19th century and exemplifies the artistry of printed, dyed, and painted that adorned American homes and wardrobes during that era. As a narrow decorative strip—likely used for edging garments, curtains, or quilts—it reflects the everyday creativity of anonymous makers, possibly women in domestic settings who blended utility with beauty. Donated to the Smithsonian American Art Museum by Waldeck, it now resides in the Smithsonian Collection, highlighting the museum's commitment to preserving humble yet vibrant folk arts. The medium's ...
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...