Daniel Marshack

Daniel Marshack was active during the period 1935 through 1940, contributing detailed studies to the extensive governmental project known as the Index of American Design. Marshack’s work focused exclusively on the precise documentation of American decorative and applied arts, ensuring that historical objects were recorded for posterity through meticulous illustration and design rendering.

His contributions centered on garments and accessories, providing valuable visual records of everyday material culture from earlier American history. Eleven documented works are represented in collections, including specific studies of attire such as Boy's Poplin Suit, Trousers, and Woman's Gym Suit. Other documented objects include designs for a Card Case and Slipper. These high-quality archival studies serve as key historical resources regarding textile and object design.

Daniel Marshack’s documentation is held in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, establishing the authority and historical value of his output for the Index. While not creating traditional Daniel Marshack paintings, the existing technical drawings are crucial examples of early art documentation efforts. Due to their nature as governmental records, these images are frequently made available to the public as downloadable artwork, allowing researchers and enthusiasts to access the historical designs captured in these important Daniel Marshack prints.