The Boston Rocker 

Eastman Johnson created this painting of a child in a Boston Rocker, in the late 19th century, a period of great change in American society. Johnson was a keen observer of American life, and this work captures the values of domesticity and childhood that were becoming increasingly important at the time. The image of a child absorbed in their book promotes the value of education and literacy, suggesting how these could improve social mobility in the rapidly changing economy. The Boston Rocker was a common household item suggesting a sense of familiarity and comfort. What I find compelling is how Johnson’s scene reflects the rise of a middle class that had the time and resources to invest in the education and well-being of their children. To understand more, we can examine the popular literature of the period, educational materials, and domestic advice manuals that circulated widely during this time. Studying these kinds of historical resources helps us to understand how social values are reflected and reinforced in visual culture.