Button

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

This unassuming yet intriguing artifact, simply titled *Button*, hails from the 19th century and belongs the Smithsonian's collection of costume and accessories. Donated by the notable collectors Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt—founders of what became the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum—it exemplifies everyday objects elevated to art through meticulous craftsmanship. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum, this awaits deeper research, inviting visitors to ponder its hidden stories. In the 19th century buttons transcended mere functionality as garment fasteners, becoming miniature canvases for personal expression and social signaling. Fashion during the Victorian era and Gilded Age emphasized elaborate details, with buttons often crafted from materials like metal, glass, or fabric to reflect one's status or whimsy. Whether adorning a gentleman's waistcoat or a lady's gown, such accessories highlighted the era's industrial innovations in mass production alongside artisanal techniques. Though specifics about its design or origin remain under study—"Research in Progress"—this button sparks curiosity about daily life in 19th-century America. It reminds us how museums preserve the intimate details of history, turning the ordinary into objects of wonder. Next time you fasten your own button, consider the artistry it might hold!

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...