Herman Bader

Herman Bader was active between 1935 and 1936, specializing in documentation related to the decorative arts. His work is intrinsically linked to the Index of American Design (IAD), a federal arts initiative that sought to create an exhaustive pictorial survey of historically significant American objects and folk art. Fifteen designs are attributed to Bader within the IAD archives.

Rather than producing traditional paintings or sculpture, Bader’s documented output consists of precise renderings and technical studies of historic design objects. These works served a vital archival function, documenting objects that ranged from everyday utility items to sophisticated metalcraft. Notable documented works attributed to Bader include the Camphene Lamp, a Firemark, and various studies in early American silversmithing, such as the Silver Mug, Silver Strainer, and Silver Teapot.

These historic renderings are preserved institutionally, demonstrating their value as primary documentation of American craft. Works by Bader are represented in the collections of the National Gallery of Art. Due to their governmental origins, the Index of American Design drawings associated with Herman Bader prints are often housed in the public domain today, making these high-quality prints and related downloadable artwork accessible for research and study.