Scent bottle case
late 18th–early 19th century
Classification
Decorative Arts
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt
Accession Number
1931-86-114-a,b
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Welcome to the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Decorative Arts collection! This *Scent Bottle Case*, dating to the late 18th or early 19th century exemplifies the refined craftsmanship of the Federal period in America. Scent bottles and their cases were cherished accessories among the genteel classes, holding perfumes, essential oils, or smelling salts to combat faintness or simply delight the senses. Crafted during a time of growing transatlantic trade and Enlightenment elegance, such items blended functionality with ornamentation, often featuring intricate designs that reflected the owner's status. Though the artist and exact medium remain unidentified—part of ongoing research—this piece highlights the artistry of everyday luxury objects. Decorative arts from this era drew inspiration from European styles like Neoclassicism, with motifs evoking ancient Rome or nature's bounty. Its survival speaks to the enduring appeal of personal adornments that bridged utility and beauty. Generously gifted by collectors Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt, renowned for their passion for design, this case invites us to ponder the scents and stories of bygone lives. Stay tuned as curatorial research uncovers more about its origins!
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...