with Pocket Knife
1881â82
Classification
containers
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Stephen W. Brener and Carol B. Brener
Accession Number
1978-146-1267
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
### "with Pocket Knife" (1881–82) Nestled in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's, *with Pocket Knife* is intriguing artifact from the Gilded Age, created around 1881–82. Though the artist remains unknown, this piece falls under the classification of "containers," suggesting it may be a functional object like a small box, case, or vessel elevated to artistic status through craftsmanship. Donated by generous collectors Stephen W. Brener and Carol. Brener, it the era's fascination with everyday items transformed into decorative treasures amid America's booming industrial landscape. The title ...
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...