Button sample book

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

Step into the world of 18th-century fashion with intriguing *Button Sample Book*, a late 1700s artifact from the Smithsonian American Museum's collection of costumes and accessories. Created by an unknown hand, this practical yet visually rich volume served as a merchant's catalog, showcasing a variety of buttons for tailors, dressmakers, and customers. Donated by collectors Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt, offers a tangible glimpse into the everyday tools of the trade. In the late 18th century, amid the elegance of Georgian styles and the dawn of American independence, buttons evolved from mere fasteners into decorative statements. Made from materials like metal, fabric, or shell, they reflected social status and craftsmanship. This sample book highlights the burgeoning accessory industry, where swatches allowed buyers to select from intricate designs—perhaps embroidered, jeweled, or molded—customizing garments for the elite and everyday wear alike. Though research continues, its presence in the Smithsonian underscores the cultural value of ephemera: objects that reveal how fashion fueled commerce and self-expression. Imagine flipping its pages, choosing a button to adorn a waistcoat or gown— a small choice with big historical echoes!

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...