Design for Embroidery
1780–1790
Medium
Drawing
Classification
Drawing
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Jacob H. Schiff
Accession Number
1906-21-246
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
### Design for Embroidery (1780–1790) This delicate drawing, created between 1780 and 1790 by an unknown artist, serves as a design for embroidery—a common practice in the late 18th century handcrafted textiles adorned homes and clothing. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection as a gift from philanthropist Jacob H. Schiff it exemplifies the meticulous planning behind decorative arts. As a simple yet precise drawing, it likely outlines patterns for stitching, highlighting the blend of artistry and craftsmanship essential to period interiors and fashion. In the context of p...
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...