Sheet with overall abstract pattern 1800 - 1900

This abstract patterned sheet was made by an anonymous artist, and is now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its creation exists within a fascinating historical and cultural context, begging questions about who created it and why. The lack of a known artist invites us to consider the countless creators, particularly women and people of color, whose artistic contributions have been historically overlooked or erased. This piece may represent the work of someone whose identity and experiences were not deemed worthy of documentation or recognition. Looking at the pattern, one might think about marginalized groups and their stories, questioning whether the artwork maintains traditional representations or develops alternative narratives. It serves as a poignant reminder of the gaps in our art historical knowledge. It prompts us to reflect on the societal structures that have shaped whose stories are told and whose are left untold.