Card case
mid-19th century
Medium
metalwork
Classification
metalwork
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Miss Virginia Gerson
Accession Number
1927-15-2
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This elegant card case, crafted in the mid-19th century exemplifies the refined metalwork traditions of American artisans during a time of growing social formality. In the Victorian era, calling cards were essential for upper- and middle-class etiquette, exchanged during visits to announce one's arrival or social standing. These portable cases, often tucked into pockets or purses, served both practical and decorative purposes, reflecting the owner's taste and status. Made of metal—likely silver or a similar alloy common in the period—the object's craftsmanship highlights techniques such as ch...
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...