Elgin Moncure Styll

Elgin Moncure Styll was active between 1935 and 1941, focusing on documentation related to the Index of American Design, a component of the Federal Art Project during the Depression era. Styll’s output centered on detailed studies of American decorative arts and textile patterns, capturing the historical intricacies of craft and material culture.

The documented works emphasize traditional quilting and textile construction. Six designs attributed to Styll are represented in collections, including specific studies such as Patchwork Quilt, Silk Quilt - "Honeycomb" Pattern, Silk Quilt - Roman Stripe, and Cotton Bed Quilt. These detailed renderings serve as primary visual resources for the history of American folk design.

Verifiable examples of Styll's work are maintained in major institutional holdings, notably the National Gallery of Art. As governmental documentation from the mid-20th century, much of this visual record resides within the public domain. Consequently, documentation related to Styll's Index of American Design contribution is widely accessible, often presented as high-quality prints for educational and research purposes. Collectors and researchers frequently seek Elgin Moncure Styll prints as key resources illustrating the depth of American craft history.