Lazar Rubinstein
Lazar Rubinstein was an artist active in the documentation of American material culture between 1938 and 1940. Their documented output comprises seven entries associated with the Index of American Design, a federal project focused on creating a comprehensive visual archive of historical decorative and utilitarian objects. This brief period of activity places Rubinstein’s work firmly within the context of federally sponsored art and documentation efforts of the late 1930s.
Five unique designs by Rubinstein are represented in major collections, establishing their contribution to this national inventory. These works, which catalog historic artifacts ranging from domestic fixtures to lighting devices, are held by institutions including the National Gallery of Art. Documented studies include Andiron, Flat Iron Holder, Square Lantern, and multiple renderings of Hand Lantern.
Although the available record of Lazar Rubinstein’s prints is limited to this two-year span, the works provide museum-quality examples of historical design documentation. These high-quality prints are often available to researchers and the public, contributing to the growing collection of downloadable artwork held in the public domain.