Hand Mirror
Second half 19th century
Classification
costume & accessories
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Anonymous Donor
Accession Number
1992-60-1
About this artwork
Oval hand mirror consisting of molded galvanized rubber handle and back, the straight handle simulating entwined branches and the back decorated with a griffon, bird and foliage. Beveled oval mirror with narrow gilded metal surround.
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...