Buttons

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

Step into the elegant world of 18th fashion with *Buttons*, a captivating example of costume accessories from the Smithsonian American Art Museum collection. Dating to the 1700s, this artwork—likely a set or selection of buttons—highlights the everyday artistry embedded in personal adornment. Donated as a gift from collectors Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt, reflects the growing interest in preserving objects that reveal the textures of historical life. In the 18th century buttons transcended mere utility, becoming symbols of style, status, and craftsmanship. Worn on garments from frock coats to waistcoats, they showcased intricate designs and materials that varied by class and region, blending functionality with flair. As part of the Smithsonian's costume and accessories department, *Buttons* offers a window into colonial American or European sartorial culture, where such items could denote profession, wealth, or national pride. Currently under research, this piece invites curiosity about its origins and makers—unknown for now, but rich in potential stories. It reminds us how museums unearth the small wonders that clothe history, making the past feel intimately wearable.

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...