Tile wall facing
ca. 1725
Medium
tiles
Classification
tiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of William Randolph Hearst
Accession Number
1926-43-4-109
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Tile Wall Facing*, dating to around 1725, exemplifies anonymous artistry of early 18th-century craftsmanship Crafted from ceramic tiles, it served as a decorative wall element, likely adorning fireplaces, hearths, or interior spaces in colonial homes. Such installations were prized for their durability and visual appeal, transforming functional surfaces into vibrant displays of pattern and color during America's formative years. Though the artist remains unknown, the piece reflects the era's blend of European influences and emerging American aesthetics, when imported or locall...
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...