Raymond McGough

Raymond McGough was active in American historical documentation during a brief but focused period between 1940 and 1941. McGough is known primarily as a contributor to the Index of American Design, a federal project documenting decorative and utilitarian folk art across the United States. Their work consisted of precise renderings of historical artifacts, capturing minute details essential for historical and curatorial reference.

The historical significance of McGough's work is established by its inclusion in major institutional holdings. Six of Raymond McGough’s works related to the Index of American Design are represented in museum collections, including the National Gallery of Art.

Documented works held in these collections showcase a variety of Americana, ranging from historical furniture to domestic glassware. These include renderings of the Bible Box and the Pa. German Picture Frame, alongside studies of objects such as the Water Pitcher. McGough’s output also features specific documentation of blown glass, illustrated by the Flask (Swirl) and the Shell Shaped Flask. As these historic records are often made available in the public domain, they are frequently utilized by scholars and collectors seeking high-quality prints for research. Raymond McGough prints serve as vital records of early American decorative arts.