Harriette Gale

Harriette Gale was active from 1935 through 1940, primarily contributing to the Index of American Design (IAD). Established under the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the IAD focused on documenting historical American decorative arts and folk objects, providing a meticulous visual catalog of cultural heritage.

Gale specialized in producing detailed renderings of functional and ornamental artifacts. Fifteen of these documented studies are represented in collections, demonstrating a broad range of subject matter typical of the IAD's mission. Notable works held in museums include studies such as the technical demonstration Beadwork on Purse, the popular cultural figure Cigar Store Indian, and functional design elements like the Copper Cock Weather Vane, Decoy Duck, and Ornamental Iron Griffon.

The significance of Gale’s historical documentation is recognized through its inclusion in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Today, these historical renderings provide valuable archival material. Many of the designs are available as downloadable artwork, allowing access to high-quality prints for researchers and historians, with the original works often residing in the public domain.