Pleated fan
19th century
Classification
costume & accessories
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Robertson D. Ward, from the collection of her mother, Mrs. Helen Wright-Clark Dawson
Accession Number
1970-58-11
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection costume and accessories, this **Pleated Fan** offers a glimpse into 19-century daily life and fashion. Dating from the 1800s, it exemplifies the portable elegance that defined personal adornments of the Victorian era, when such items were essential for women navigating social gatherings, balls, and warm afternoons. The pleated design—its hallmark feature—allowed for compact storage and a dramatic flourish when opened, reflecting the ingenuity of period craftsmanship. Though the artist and medium await further research, fans like this one served multifaceted roles: practical tools for cooling, fashionable statements, and even coded signals in flirtation or etiquette. Its classification underscores how everyday objects carried cultural weight, blending utility with subtle artistry. A cherished heirloom, the fan was gifted by Mrs. Robertson D. Ward from her mother, Mrs. Helen Wright-Clark Dawson's collection, weaving personal family history into the nation's artistic narrative. As research progresses, we anticipate uncovering more about its origins—inviting visitors to ponder the stories hidden in its folds.
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...