Button

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

This unassuming yet intriguing *Button* from the 18th century offers a glimpse into everyday life during America's colonial era. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Smithsonian Collection, it falls under the classification of costume and accessories, highlighting the small but essential details that adorned clothing of the time. Donated as a gift from collectors Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt—known for their passion for decorative arts—this artifact underscores how personal adornments reflected social status, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange in a burgeoning nation. Buttons like this one were far more than functional fasteners; they were miniature canvases for artistry and innovation. In the 1700s, as trade routes expanded, buttons evolved from simple bone or wood to elaborate designs incorporating metals, fabrics, or even precious materials, symbolizing wealth or regional styles. Though its exact medium awaits further research—currently marked as "Research in Progress"—it likely embodies the period's blend of European influences and emerging American ingenuity. As visitors, imagine fastening your waistcoat or gown with such a piece, connecting you to the hands that wore it centuries ago. Ongoing studies promise to reveal more about its origins, inviting us to appreciate how even the tiniest objects weave the rich tapestry of history.

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...