Joseph Stonefield

Joseph Stonefield was an artist active during the late 1930s, primarily between 1935 and 1939. Their focused body of work is centered on the documentary illustration of American design and material culture, reflecting the widespread national interest in cataloging historical decorative arts during this era.

Stonefield’s contribution includes twelve documented works known as the "index of american designs." These pieces are highly detailed renderings that emphasize precision and the historical context of everyday objects and design elements. Known titles held in collections include utilitarian subjects such as Whale Oil Lamp, Flat Iron, Pewter Covered Water Pitcher, and Pewter Lamp. The scope of their documentation extended beyond objects to architectural and landscape features, as exemplified by the work Parterre and Fountains of Blind Institution.

Documentation of these historical records confirms their significance as museum-quality assets. Joseph Stonefield prints are represented in major institutional holdings, notably the National Gallery of Art. Due to their age and historical provenance, much of this work is now in the public domain, making it highly accessible as downloadable artwork for scholarly and preservation purposes.