Bracelet 14th-15th century

This glass bracelet, now at the Art Institute of Chicago, was made anonymously at an unknown date. The absence of a known artist invites us to consider the broader cultural context in which such an object was created and used. Bracelets like this were not just adornments; they were deeply embedded in social practices. They could signify status, group affiliation, or even offer protection. For the wearer, such an object could be a personal statement and an assertion of identity. The bracelet’s tactile nature suggests an intimacy and connection with its anonymous maker and original wearer. The physical act of wearing the bracelet makes one think about agency, identity, and how adornment can reflect or shape our sense of self. It is a reminder of the individuals whose stories are often untold. As we consider its place in the museum, we might reflect on how it, as a cultural artifact, bridges past and present, inviting us to contemplate the lives and values of those who came before us.