Decorative Arts and Design in America, 1820–1914

The postcolonial period in the United States gave rise to profound social and economic changes that would shape the complex dynamics of the decorative arts and design throughout the 19th century. This course traces the multiple trends of revival and reform styles, relating their appearance and development to the interaction of technology, industrialization, and social changes and to intellectual and design influences from European and other international sources. Readings rely heavily on primary sources and museum visits to examine objects and interiors firsthand. 3 credits.