Design for a Pendant Trophy
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-519-7
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
René Charpentier (1680–1723), a skilled French engraver, created this *Design for a Pendant Trophy around 1736, shortly after his death, suggesting it may represent a posthumous print or a design realized by his studio. As a print, this work exemplifies the era's use of engraving to disseminate intricate ornamental patterns for luxury goods like jewelry or decorative trophies. Prints were vital in 18th-century Europe, allowing artisans across workshops to replicate elaborate motifs efficiently, bridging fine art and craft. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection, acquired t...