Character Commentary:
Now this painting is what I love to see, women standing up, having a say in politics and being unapologetic! I see that a woman named Victoria Woodhull decided to run for President, causing both the political world and the relative world to go crazy (Mcshane). Apparently, this woman did not even make it to the election because a man, no shock there, had her put in jail (Mcshane)! Of course, a man was terrified that a woman might take his place or hold a higher position than himself, which is more than likely why he had her sent to jail. Victoria Woodhull is the type of woman I want to become, a true “Rebel [Woman]” or wild woman that is not afraid to step on the toes of men in order to get what she wants (Mcshane)! Thankfully, Victoria Woodhill is not the only wild woman to be seen, this painting portrays countless wild women and reversed gender roles. The funny thing about this piece is the man holding the child while the women are advocating! Now of course, that is normal, I have even heard of men fighting for paternal leave! With this dynamic being portrayed in the late 1860’s, I am sure that many were upset by this. I doubt that anyone could believe that the stereotypical gender roles could ever be switched. Imagine what these people would think now. HA! I would love to see the looks on their face when they step into 2020 and see stay at home Dads and a female Vice President.
Editorial Commentary:
This painting, Age of Brass: Or the Triumphs of Woman's Rights, reveals what wild women have been dreaming of, which is women having both a voice and a place in politics, just as a man would. This painting and what it depicts is strikingly different compared to the social norms and gender roles of the time this painting was created. While women are characterized as those who should stay home, take care of the children, and stay out of political matters, they are doing the opposite in this painting. As for the men, they are those who do not do the work of a woman, such as staying home at watching the children, but in this painting, the man is taking care of the baby rather than taking part in politics. Along with the obvious contrast between typical gender roles, the women in this painting are doing un-ladylike things, such as smoking a cigar, wearing pants, and voting. I am sure that this painting was not taken to very well and that many were opposed to what this painting depicts. Although this painting may be overall striking or unrealistic to the relative population during 1869, the contrast of the gender roles within this painting portrays what has happened with society since its creation. Since this painting, women have gained the right to vote, began participating in the work force, and even running for Presidential elections both inside and outside of the United States. As for men, men are no longer the only ones seen as the “breadwinner” or the sole head of the household. As of today, many men around the world are advocating for paternity leave just as women receive maternity leave.
Citation:
Age of Brass: Or the Triumphs of Woman's Rights. Currier & Ives, 1869, Museum of the City of New York, New York, City.