Distinctive Design: European and North American Decorative Arts

Ongoing

Carriage House at One West Mount Vernon Place

Showcasing 21 artworks, this gallery explores the decorative arts of Europe and North America through objects shown at international exhibitions or world’s fairs. From the 1850s onward these events were held regularly in major cities across the globe, attracting millions of visitors and inspiring artists to reach new heights as nations competed through displays that reflected the imperialism and international rivalry of the era.

This intimate installation includes two Fabergé imperial eggs made for the Tsar of Russia, Tiffany’s Iris corsage studded with sapphires sourced in Montana, and six outstanding examples of René Lalique’s innovative art nouveau jewelry.

Additional works from the Walters 18th and 19th century collection will be added next year.

Curators: Jo Briggs, Jennie Walters Delano Curator of 18th and 19th Century Art; Earl Martin, Deborah and Philip English Curator of Decorative Arts and Material Culture

This installation is generously funded by Supporters of the Walters Art Museum. To support future projects and the ongoing rotation of objects on display at the Walters, please consider making a gift.

Image
Tiffany and Company; Artist: Louis Comfort Tiffany; Enameller: Julia Munson Sherman, Gold Cup, 1913, gold, transparent enamel. Acquired by Henry Walters, 1915.

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