Square Shawl
1870s
Medium
Wool, patchwork of double interlocking 2:2 'S' twill tapestry weaves; outer border and "Harlequin" tabs of patchwork in 2:2 twill weaves; embroidered in single back and stem stitches; laid work and couching; main warp fringe
Dimensions
202 × 203 cm (79 1/2 × 79 7/8 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
21007
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...