Bowl and stand

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

This elegant "Bowl and Stand" from around 1770–1800 exemplifies the refined glasswares produced in late 18th-century America a period when the young nation was developing its own artisanal traditions amid post-Revolutionary growth. Crafted by an unknown artist, such pieces were essential for domestic life, often used for serving punch, desserts, or as decorative centerpieces in prosperous households. The form—combining a shallow bowl with a sturdy stand—highlights the era's emphasis on functionality blended with graceful proportions, reflecting influences from English and European glassmaking adapted to local workshops. As part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection, this glassware underscores the burgeoning American decorative arts scene, where glass production flourished in centers like New England and the Mid-Atlantic states. Though the exact medium and techniques remain under research, its survival speaks to the durability and aesthetic appeal of period craftsmanship. Acquired through the generous bequest of Walter Phelps Warren, the piece invites visitors to ponder everyday luxuries that shaped early American identity. Ongoing scholarly research promises to reveal more about its origins, reminding us how even humble objects like this bowl carry stories of innovation and cultural exchange. (198 words)

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...