Von Erdberg, Joan Prentice, 1908-1995

Abstract

The Costume and Textiles Department Records consist of correspondence, datebooks, ephemera, exhibition records, and research notes by various curators through the years. There are also records pertaining to the annual Crystal Ball galas that were held from 1959 to 1976, including the bicentennial affair.

Abstract

The earliest Decorative Arts Department Records consist of the correspondence of Museum Committee member Alfred Coxe Prime. The other series document the work of curatorial staff; namely, Joseph Downs, Henry P. McIlhenny, Joan Prentice, and Calvin Hathaway, who each headed the department, respectively, from 1925 to 1973. Material consists of correspondence, subject files, research and exhibition records.

Scope and Contents From the Sub-Series: The bulk of material in this subseries is internal correspondence, most often between Kimball and the particular staff member. Advisers are also represented. Additional correspondence between curatorial personnel and individuals or organizations outside the museum remains in the "General correspondence and related material" series. The "Administrative issues" series, "Personnel" subseries contains Kimball's correspondence with curator/assistant director Henri Marceau as well as any...

Scope and Contents From the Series: Comprising the largest portion of the Fiske Kimball Records, this series clearly documents Kimball's extensive contact with the institutions, individuals, and businesses that collectively directed and promoted art and artists, and a public appreciation for both. Kimball cultivated a variety of correspondents, from dealers and donors to museums, educational institutions and professional organizations. Throughout the three decades documented, antiques and art dealers appear to be Kimball's...

Scope and Contents From the Series: Comprising the largest portion of the Fiske Kimball Records, this series clearly documents Kimball's extensive contact with the institutions, individuals, and businesses that collectively directed and promoted art and artists, and a public appreciation for both. Kimball cultivated a variety of correspondents, from dealers and donors to museums, educational institutions and professional organizations. Throughout the three decades documented, antiques and art dealers appear to be Kimball's...

Scope and Contents From the Sub-Series: As the correspondents in this sub-subseries make evident, McIlhenny cultivated a social network that reached across noted names in all the arts, as well as titled gentry, royalty and political figures. Whenever celebrities of the stage, screen or concert hall were performing in Philadelphia, McIlhenny would invite them to his home at Rittenhouse Square, just a stone's throw away from the major theatres and hotels. Although they could not always accept the offer, invitees included Noel...

Scope and Contents From the Series: While this series includes Kimball's correspondence with many of the same individuals and institutions represented in the various subject-related series, the bulk of "General correspondence and related material" documents his long-term association with organizations devoted to professional development and scholarship. Kimball's most consistent correspondents include the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the American Association of Museums (AAM), and the Association of Art Museum...