Design for a salon wall
1770-1790
Medium
Drawing
Classification
Drawing
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1911-28-121
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This delicate drawing, titled *Design for a Salon Wall dates to the late 18th century (1770–1790), a transformative era in American history bridging the Revolutionary War and the early Federal period. Created by an unknown artist, it offers a glimpse into the aspirations of America's emerging elite, who sought to craft sophisticated domestic spaces inspired by European elegance. A "salon" evoked the intimate parlors of French high society, adapted here for American homes—spaces for conversation, music, and display. Acquired by the Smithsonian American Art Museum through its Advisory Council, t...
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...