Button
late 18th century
Classification
costume & accessories
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of R. Keith Kane from the Estate of Mrs. Robert B. Noyes
Accession Number
1949-94-14
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This delicate button, crafted by Italian artist Agostino Bruniasca. 1730–1796) in the late 18th century, offers a glimpse into the refined world of period costume and accessories. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Smithsonian, it exemplifies the exquisite small-scale objects that adorned garments of the era, reflecting the artistry of everyday adornment. Brunias, known for his vibrant depictions of West Indian life after relocating from Europe to the Caribbean, bridges fine art and functional design in this classification under costume & accessories. Though the medium remains unidentified amid ongoing research, the button's late 18th-century origins align with a time of transatlantic exchange, when European craftsmanship influenced colonial fashion. Such items were status symbols, often featuring intricate details that showcased technical skill and cultural fusion—hallmarks of Brunias's own multicultural career. Acquired as a gift from R. Keith Kane via the Estate of Mrs. Robert B. Noyes, this piece invites visitors to ponder the intimate stories behind museum treasures. As research progresses, it promises deeper insights into Brunias's versatile legacy and the hidden artistry of 18th-century accessories. (198 words)