Object Timeline

1930

  • Work on this object began.

1939

  • Work on this object ended.

1977

  • We acquired this object.

2011

2015

2019

2025

  • You found it!

Embroidery Sample (USA), 1930–39

This is a Embroidery sample. It is dated 1930–39 and we acquired it in 1977. Its medium is cellulose acetate, glass and cellulose nitrate bead. It is a part of the Textiles department.

The fashion industry embraced the wide range of new fabrics woven with semi-synthetic fibers to produce stylish clothing. The shape of this embellishment indicates it is a sample for the neckline of a woman's garment and is made from a shimmering mix of natural and semi-synthetic beads.

It is credited Gift of David Glickman.

Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 19.7 × 28.9 cm (7 3/4 × 11 3/8 in.)

Cite this object as

Embroidery Sample (USA), 1930–39; cellulose acetate, glass and cellulose nitrate bead; H x W x D: 19.7 × 28.9 cm (7 3/4 × 11 3/8 in.); Gift of David Glickman; 1977-81-12

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibition Plastics.

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-5.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18493251/ |title=Embroidery Sample (USA), 1930–39 |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=31 October 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>