Needle case
after 1838
Medium
costume & accessories
Classification
costume & accessories
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Accession Number
1951-108-4
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This delicate needle case, dating from after 1838, is a charming example of everyday artistry preserved in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection of costume and accessories. As a practical accessory for sewing enthusiasts—likely women managing household tasks in 19th-century America—it highlights the blend of utility and subtle craftsmanship common in personal items of the era. Though the artist remains unknown, such objects often featured intricate designs that elevated functional tools into treasured keepsakes. Held in the Smithsonian Collection, this piece reflects the domestic c...
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...