Woman Seated in a Rocker, Sewing 

Mark Rothko made this ink drawing of a woman sewing, at an unknown date. The domestic scene invites us to consider the wider social context of art production. In the early to mid-20th century, when Rothko was active, art institutions often marginalized depictions of everyday life, particularly those centered around women and domesticity. The art world, dominated by male perspectives, often prioritized grand historical or mythological themes, overshadowing the significance of women's labor and experiences in the home. By choosing this subject, Rothko subtly challenges those established norms. To fully appreciate this work, we might explore archives of the time: magazines, personal letters, and records of art exhibitions. These could reveal the cultural attitudes towards women, domesticity, and the kinds of art deemed worthy of attention. Rothko’s work gains richer meaning when seen against the backdrop of its time.