Magnus S. Fossum

Magnus S. Fossum was an artist active during a concentrated period between 1935 and 1937, contributing significantly to the federal Index of American Design (IAD) project. The IAD sought to create detailed, high-quality visual records of American folk arts and historical decorative objects.

Fossum is represented in museum collections by fifteen documented Index of American Designs, affirming his role in preserving the history of material culture during the Great Depression era. These meticulously rendered design studies are held in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art.

The works captured by Fossum span various categories of early American craft and household goods. Notable documented pieces include textiles such as the Boston Town Coverlet, furniture records like the Checker-board Table-tilt Top, and precise studies of seating, including the "Ladder Back" Chair - Called "Jolting Chair". Additional documented works include a record of a Book - English Grammar and a simple Chair study.

The surviving Magnus S. Fossum prints function as important historical documentation, reflecting the IAD’s commitment to visual accuracy. The museum-quality records he created provide researchers and the public access to detailed images of historical artifacts, many of which are now entering the public domain.