ca. 1870
Medium
printed, dyed & painted textiles
Classification
printed, dyed & painted textiles
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Mrs. William P. Treadwell
Accession Number
1916-33-165
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Step into the intimate world of 19th American domestic life with *Pocket*, a delicate artifact from around 1870 now housed in the Smithsonian American Museum. Crafted by an unknown artist, this textile accessory—likely a detachable pocket worn under skirts by women—was both practical and personal, serving as a secure pouch for essentials like keys, handkerchiefs, or money before modern sewn-in pockets became widespread. The medium of printed, dyed, and textiles highlights the era's blend of artisanal skill and emerging industrial techniques. Vibrant patterns achieved through block printing, resist-dyeing, and hand-painting reflect Victorian-era tastes for floral motifs and bold colors, turning everyday utility into wearable art. These methods preserved fabrics' durability while allowing for creative expression in the home. Generously donated by Mrs. William P. Treadwell to the Smithsonian Collection, *Pocket* offers a tangible glimpse into women's hidden histories. Though research continues, it whispers of resourcefulness and craftsmanship in post-Civil War America, inviting us to appreciate the quiet artistry of the ordinary. (178 words)
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...