Ralph Atkinson

Ralph Atkinson was an American documentarian active during the mid-1930s, contributing significantly to the historical record of American decorative and folk arts. His documented activity period spans 1935 to 1936, a time often associated with federal arts projects focused on preserving national design history.

Atkinson is known for his work documenting the Index of American Design, a project dedicated to creating a pictorial survey of early American craft and decorative objects. Fifteen of Atkinson’s index designs are represented in museum collections, confirming his role in this major archival undertaking.

The subject matter covered by Atkinson focuses on diverse elements of material culture, including domestic objects and historical documents. Notable documented designs include a Quilt, a Baptismal Certificate, a Blue Hobnail Pitcher, a Bottle, and a Cake Plate. These works meticulously record the details and craftsmanship of historic American artifacts.

Today, Atkinson’s documentation is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Due to their age and historical importance, these detailed records often reside in the public domain, making them available as high-quality prints and downloadable artwork for research and study.