Jack Bochner

Jack Bochner was an American artist active during the mid-twentieth century, with documentation establishing his professional period between 1935 and 1940. His output is intimately linked to the Index of American Design, a crucial project established under the Works Progress Administration (WPA). This Depression-era initiative employed artists to create a comprehensive, fact-based visual archive of American decorative arts, crafts, and folk objects.

Bochner’s work for the Index of American Design concentrated on detailed, precise renderings of historic furniture and functional artifacts. Twelve works by the artist are represented in museum collections, reflecting the exacting standards of the project. Notable documented studies include the technical drawings Bed and Trundle Bed, Drawing for Chair, and representations of sophisticated cabinetmaking, such as Block Front Desk with Cabinet Top and Highboy. These works serve as vital visual records of American heritage and are appreciated for their rigorous draftsmanship. Many of these important historical documents are now in the public domain, ensuring broad accessibility for research.

The enduring scholarly value of Bochner’s contributions is established by their institutional collection. Works by Jack Bochner are housed within the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The archival nature of these drawings makes them essential resources, often utilized for educational purposes and the creation of high-quality prints documenting early American craftsmanship.