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-62
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This enigmatic "Wall Facing," dating to circa 1725, consists of tiles that once adorned a wall, offering a glimpse into early th-century decorative arts. Classified simply as tiles in the Smithsonian Art Museum's collection, its exact medium remains unidentified, but such pieces were typically ceramic, used to embellish interiors with vibrant patterns or motifs. Crafted anonymously during the colonial era, it reflects the era's blend of European craftsmanship and emerging American tastes, where imported or locally produced tiles added luxury to homes and public spaces. Acquired as a gift from...
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...