Albert Geuppert

Albert Geuppert was a documentary artist whose known period of activity spanned the years 1935 through 1938. Geuppert’s output is uniquely characterized by its association with the Index of American Design, a major federal arts initiative dedicated to creating precise, objective documentation of American decorative, folk, and utilitarian artifacts prior to 1900.

Fifteen works attributed to Geuppert are represented in major museum holdings, establishing their importance as detailed historical records. These illustrations are preserved in the collections of the National Gallery of Art, confirming their museum-quality status. The works focus on capturing the exact dimensions and material details of period objects, reflecting the Index’s mission to preserve the nation’s design heritage.

Notable illustrations documented by Geuppert include the technical renderings Lantern for Candle, Spurs, and the tools Adjustable Drawshave and Bootjack. These illustrations provide researchers with precise visual information regarding historical manufacturing and design aesthetics. Due to their institutional history, many Albert Geuppert prints are today considered public domain, allowing for widespread access to these historical records as downloadable artwork for academic and interpretive use.