About this artwork
As a young man, Benjamin Smith worked for several manufacturers of upholstery, furniture, and undertakers’ supplies in Wisconsin and Illinois. Continuing in sales, he worked for W.K. Cowan and Co., Chicago antique dealers and furniture restorers. Smith left that firm in 1907 to work with several art, fine silver and china dealers. In 1924, he opened his own business, providing appraisal and authentication services to many of Chicago’s society families. The bulk of the collection consists of appraisals and related correspondence, organized by client name. Personal correspondence, memorabilia, and miscellaneous publications complete the collection.
Collection access:
Collections may be accessed in the Franke Reading Room of the Research Center at The Art Institute of Chicago, by appointment only. For further information, consult the FAQ.
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Oral histories
Contact the Ryerson and Burnham Art and Architecture Archives:
archives@artic.edu
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- AIC Archives
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Artist
- Benjamin K. Smith (Collected by)
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Title
- Benjamin K. Smith Papers
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Date
- Made 1935–1989
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Medium
- Holograph papers, printed papers and black and white photographic prints.
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Dimensions
- 5 boxes: W.: 76.2 cm (30 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Barton Keith Smith, 1990.
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Reference Number
- 1990.5
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
