HART246 - 01 - American Decorative Arts

This lecture class will cover the broad trajectory of decorative arts produced in America from the mid seventeenth century to the late twentieth century, providing an introduction to American furniture, silver, ceramics, glass, base metals, and textiles. Goals of the class include tracing the evolution of major style movements and regional characteristics and preferences; placing these objects into an international design context; developing an awareness of significant craftsmen and important individual pieces; understanding basic craft techniques; appreciating the contributions of immigrant craftsmen from various countries; and considering the decorative arts as non-verbal evidence of the attitudes and values of their makers and users.