Folding ruler and case
late 18th century
Classification
timepieces & measuring devices
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt
Accession Number
1931-86-112-a,b
About this artwork
Tall, octagonal tapered case hinged at top. Ivory ruler of seven folding sections graduated in centimeters on one side, inches on the other.
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...