American Decorative Arts refers to a wide range of functional and ornamental objects created in the United States from the colonial period to the present. This includes furniture, ceramics, glassware, textiles, and metalwork, often reflecting the cultural influences of different regions and time periods. Notable styles include Shaker, Arts and Crafts, and Art Deco, each showcasing unique craftsmanship and design principles. These decorative arts serve both practical and aesthetic purposes, often highlighting the skills of artisans and the materials available at the time. Institutions like the Smithsonian and the Metropolitan Museum of Art house significant collections, preserving the history and evolution of American craftsmanship.