Letter case
18th century
Medium
costume & accessories
Classification
costume & accessories
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Bequest of Richard Cranch Greenleaf in memory of his mother, Adeline Emma Greenleaf
Accession Number
1962-58-24
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Step into the refined world of 18th personal accessories with this intriguing *Letter case*, a delicate item from the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection of costumes and accessories. Dating to the 1700s, such cases were essential for carrying folded correspondence—letters that formed the lifeline of social, romantic, and business connections in an era before widespread postal systems or email. Crafted as part of everyday attire, it likely featured fine textiles, embroidery, or leather, reflecting the craftsmanship of colonial or early American makers. Though the artist remains unknow...
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...