Wall facing
ca. 1725
Classification
tiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of William Randolph Hearst
Accession Number
1926-43-7-a-19
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
### Wall Facing, ca. 1725 This intriguing "Wall Facing" is a classified set of tiles dating to around 1725, likely an architectural element designed to adorn interior walls or surrounds, such as fireplaces or panels. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Smithsonian Collection, its medium remains under study, but tiles from this era were prized for their durability and ability to add vibrant color and pattern to everyday spaces. Crafted anonymously, it reflects the artisanal traditions of the early 18th century, when tilework bridged European influences—like Dutch Delft or English s...
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...