Wall facing
ca. 1725
Classification
tiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of William Randolph Hearst
Accession Number
1926-43-5-555
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Smithsonian American Museum's collection, *Wall Facing* (ca. 1725) is a captivating example of early 18th-century tile, classified as architectural tiles. Though the artist and precise medium remain unknown—pending further research—this piece likely served as decorative cladding for interior walls, a common feature in colonial-era homes and public spaces. Dating to around 1725, it the craftsmanship of the Georgian period, when tiles were prized for their durability, vibrant designs, and ability to elevate everyday spaces with artistic flair. Tiles like this one were integral to...
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...