Collection Information
Size: 0.9 Linear feet
Summary: The papers of painter and designer Louise Medbery von Brockdorff measure 0.9 linear feet and date from 1905 to 1975. The collection comments on von Brockdorff's colorful life of different interests and travel. Found are address books, biographical materials, letters from Maryette Charlton, eighteen journals, sketches, and handwritten writings and notes.
Biographical/Historical Note
Louise Medbery von Brockdorff (1887-1975) was a painter and designer based in New York, New York who worked briefly for the Works Progress Administration. She was also an astrologist and a socialite with many friends in the arts including choreographers, dancers, artists, and poets.
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Provenance
Donated 1980 by Lillian Kiesler and Maryette Charlton, friends of von Brockdorff. Additional materials were donated by Maryette Charlton between 1998 and 2013.
Related Materials
The Archives of American Art also holds the Maryette Charlton papers, circa 1890-2013. Charlton, who served as executor of von Brockdorff's estate, was a close friend. The Charlton papers include letters from von Brockdorff to Charlton, information on the acquisition of the estate, legal documents, and records regarding von Brockdorff's memorial which was organized by Charlton.
Language Note
English .
Funding Note
Processing of this collection received support from the Smithsonian American Women's History Initiative.