ornament
1783
Classification
ornament
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt
Accession Number
1925-2-222
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Created in 1783 by artist John Edwards, this ornament stands as a modest yet evocative example of late eighteenth-century decorative art. H in the Smithsonian American Art, the piece belongs a collection that highlights American creativity during a transformative period in the nation's history. Its classification simply as “ornament” points to its likely role in enhancing everyday or ceremonial objects, reflecting the period’s appreciation for embellishment and detail. Donated by Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt, the work joins a distinguished group of decorative pieces that have enriched the museum’...