Tile wall facing
ca. 1725
Classification
tiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of William Randolph Hearst
Accession Number
1926-43-4-470
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Tile Wall Facing*, dating to around 1725, is a captivating example of early 18th decorative arts preserved in the Smithsonian American Art's collection. Acquired as a gift from the legendary collector William Randolph Hearst whose vast trove of historical treasures enriched many institutions, this piece reflects the era's blend of functionality and ornamentation. Classified simply as "tiles," it likely served as a protective and aesthetic facing for walls, fireplaces, or interiors in grand homes. Created by an unknown artist during the early Georgian period, such tilework was ...
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...