Francis Law Durand

Francis Law Durand was an artist whose documented professional activity spanned a remarkably long period, dating from 1855 to 1935. Durand is primarily associated with the Index of American Design, a project dedicated to documenting American material culture and decorative arts.

Fifteen of Durand’s designs created for the Index are preserved in museum collections, reflecting the artist’s detailed approach to illustrating historical artifacts. These works serve as important historical records, documenting a range of functional and domestic objects. Examples of the subjects depicted include the Pieced Quilt, the Grandfather's Clock, the Jersey Pipe, the Bottle, and the Candlestick.

The work of Francis Law Durand is represented in major American institutions, establishing its significance as a record of early American craft and design. Notable holdings include the National Gallery of Art. Today, these historically accurate, museum-quality records are frequently consulted by researchers. Many of the original designs, often circulated as Francis Law Durand prints, are now part of the public domain, allowing for greater access and study of American folk arts.