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Object Timeline

1959

  • We acquired this object.

2015

2019

2025

  • You found it!

Buttons [3]

This is a Buttons [3]. We acquired it in 1959. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.



In the 1780s, men’s coat buttons became increasingly large and contained subject matter meant to invite curiosity, provoke conversation, and fulfill the need for novelty. In 1787, Baroness Oberkirch commented on this fashion: "The buttons of men’s jackets were no less bizarre. They showed portraits, such as that of the kings of France, the twelve Caesars and sometimes family miniatures."Along with the aforementioned butterfly, other types of insects also became popular motifs on oversized buttons.

This object was bequest of Julia Hutchins Wolcott. It is credited Bequest of Julia Hutchins Wolcott.

  • Fantasma
  • garment, silk worm cocoons and raw silk threads.
  • Courtesy of AnotherFarm.
  • NATURE.023

Cite this object as

Buttons [3]; Bequest of Julia Hutchins Wolcott; 1959-66-233-a/c

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibition Embroidered and Embellished.

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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-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18726613/ |title=Buttons [3] |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=14 February 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>