Tile
late 18th–early 19th century
Medium
tiles
Classification
tiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt
Accession Number
1920-15-158
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This elegant tile, dating to the late 18th or early 19th century exemplifies the decorative arts of early America. Crafted as part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection of tiles, it reflects the period's growing interest in architectural embellishments for hearths, walls, and interiors. During time, tiles were prized for their durability and aesthetic appeal, often imported or produced locally to adorn prosperous homes, bringing a touch of European refinement to the new republic. Though the artist remains unknown, the tile's medium highlights skilled ceramic techniques of the er...
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...