Goblet and base
1700
Medium
woodwork
Classification
woodwork
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Clinton Wilder
Accession Number
1979-86-4-a,b
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Behold the elegant *Goblet and Base a finely crafted wooden vessel from 1700, now housed in the Smithsonian American Museum's collection of woodwork. Donated as a gift from Clinton Wilder, this piece exemplifies early 18th-century American at a time when European colonists relied heavily on abundant local woods like maple, cherry, or walnut for everyday objects. Goblets like this were essential for communal dining and celebrations, blending utility with subtle artistry. Woodwork was a cornerstone of colonial material culture, often created by skilled turners using lathes to shape symmetrical ...
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...