Wall facing
ca. 1725
Classification
tiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of William Randolph Hearst
Accession Number
1926-43-5-572
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
**Wall Facing, ca. 1725** This intriguing "Wall Facing" is a classified example of early 18th-century tiles likely serving as decorative paneling or a facade element in a grand interior. Dating to around 1725, it the craftsmanship of an era when tiles were prized for their durability, vibrant designs, and ability to transform spaces with color and pattern. Though the artist and exact medium remain unknown, such pieces often reflected influences from European traditions adapted for colonial American homes, blending functionality with artistry. Acquired as a gift from newspaper magnate and avi...
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...