Mezzaro (shawl or headcovering)
1800â1850
Classification
printed, dyed & painted textiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt, from the textile collection of Mrs. Abram Stevens Hewitt
Accession Number
1931-4-15
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Step into the vibrant world of 19th textiles with this enchanting *Mezzaro*, a shawl or headcovering 1800–1850. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Smithsonian, this piece exemplifies the artistry of printed, dyed, painted textiles—a classification that highlights the skilled handiwork of anonymous makers during a time when such fabrics were prized for both fashion function. Mezzaros like this one were versatile accessories, often draped over shoulders or heads, blending utility with elegance in everyday and ceremonial life. The techniques of printing, dyeing, and painting allowed...
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...