Mother with two children 

Marie Ellenrieder made this drawing of a mother with two children using a graphic pencil, although the exact date is unknown. Ellenrieder was working in Germany at a time when women artists were gaining more recognition, but still faced significant social barriers. Here, Ellenrieder seems to depict the intimate bond between a mother and her children. The children embrace their mother, who sits calmly, perhaps representing a nurturing and idealized view of motherhood. How does this sentimental depiction relate to the broader social context of the 19th century? Ellenrieder's choice of subject matter may reflect the growing emphasis on domesticity and the role of women as caregivers during this period, however, we would need further research into Ellenrieder's social circles and artistic influences to fully contextualize this sensitive drawing. By examining historical documents, letters, and other artworks from the time, we can better understand the complex social forces that shaped Ellenrieder's artistic vision.