Purse 1935 - 1942

Florence Earl rendered this drawing of a purse in watercolor and graphite pencil. Born in 1855, Earl lived through transformative periods in American society. A time when women’s roles in society were constantly being redefined. The purse, as a cultural artifact, becomes a site where gender, class, and identity intersect. In the late 19th century, it was a common accessory, often ornamented and reflective of a woman's social standing and taste. This image shows an idealized and meticulously crafted object. Although we may not know Earl's intentions, we can consider how she engages with gendered expectations. Is she reinforcing traditional roles or exploring new artistic expressions through a domestic object? The care in rendering the details of the purse could be seen as an embrace of the decorative arts. It also marks a subtle act of resistance against the patriarchal norms that often devalued women's artistic labor. The artwork highlights the complexities of identity and challenges the viewer to reflect on the personal and societal values embedded in everyday objects.