Janet Riza

Janet Riza was an artist active for a concentrated period between 1934 and 1935. During this time, Riza specialized in producing detailed documented studies related to American decorative and folk arts. Fifteen such works, collectively referred to as the "index of american designs," are known to be represented in museum collections.

Riza’s extant output focuses on faithfully recording historical objects and material culture. These works are illustrative records, typically detailing domestic items and craftsmanship from earlier periods. Key examples include the documented studies Sugar Bowl with Cover, the furnishing detail Andiron, and renderings of objects such as Candlestick, Compote, and Blown Glass.

The entirety of the artist’s documented work is housed in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art. These Janet Riza prints are considered museum-quality records of American design history. Due to the nature of their creation as historical documentation, many of these images are publicly accessible and available today as downloadable artwork.