Shaker Gift Drawings

to be in circulation of all those, of unknown number, originally created. Most are unsigned; most are undated. Many show indecipherable lines, words, and objects that add to their mystery. Because Shaker conduct did not allow any superfluous decoration, art, or pictures to be hung on the wall, they were not referred to as “art.” They were illustrations of messages from the spirit world. It is difficult to know if these pictures were ever hung in public, to be enjoyed by a large audience, or merely put away as holy relics. It is commonly believed that to protect the sect from those who wouldn’t understand the meaning or significance of the drawings, they were kept private and ultimately tucked away and forgotten. This has led to their obscurity.

The drawings are significant because they give us a picture of Shaker life. They express Shaker concerns for spiritual, personal, and community order. They resemble the grids of Shaker towns and fields, and the layout of their living habits and working spaces. They echo objects of their day-to-day life, even as these things are imbued with supernatural qualities. In summary, the drawings show the side of earthly life in which the Shakers crave order, as well as their openness to the disorder and revelation of spiritual interventions.

Illustrations: All illustrations are copyright 1977 Harry N. Abrams, Inc. and are found in the book The Shaker World: Art, Life, Belief.

Resources:
Stainton, Elaine M., ed. The Shaker World: Art, Life, Belief. Harry N. Abrams, Inc.: New York, 1997.

Shaker Gift Drawings Surface (Maine Antique Digest): http://www.maineantiquedigest.com/articl...

About the Shakers (Hancock Shaker Village): http://www.hancockshakervillage.org/old/...

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