Strong box and key
probably 16th century
Medium
containers
Classification
containers
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Anonymous Donor
Accession Number
1967-45-24-a,b
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection of containers, the *Strong Box and Key* is a artifact from probably the 16th century Crafted by an unknown maker, this sturdy metal chest—complete with its original key—represents early efforts in secure storage, a vital necessity in an era of trade, exploration, and emerging commerce. Donated anonymously, it highlights the museum's commitment to preserving everyday objects that whisper tales of daily life. In the Renaissance period, strongboxes like this one safeguarded valuables such as coins, documents, and jewels against theft, f...
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...