Early in the Morning c. 19th century

Editor: This is Joseph Andrews’ “Early in the Morning.” It depicts a woman milking a cow while a man looks on. The scene feels…domestic, but also a bit staged. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It’s interesting to consider this work through a feminist lens. Notice how the woman is actively engaged in labor, while the man observes passively. Editor: That's a good point, and I hadn't noticed that before! Curator: What does it suggest about gender roles within rural life at the time? Editor: It highlights the disparity in labor, perhaps mirroring broader societal expectations. Curator: Precisely! This piece opens a dialogue about the representation of women and work in art. Editor: I'll definitely think about that next time I see art from this time.