Cockade fan

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

Step into the elegant world of mid-19-century fashion with the *Cockade Fan*, a delicate accessory dating to around 1850. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Smithsonian, this piece falls under the classification of costume and accessories, generously gifted by Lea S.quer. Crafted during the Victorian era, when fans were indispensable for women—serving practical purposes like cooling oneself while also enabling subtle social signals through fanning gestures—this fan exemplifies the artistry of everyday adornment. The term "cockade" refers to a rosette or knot of ribbons, often wor...

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...