Suffolk Latch c. 1939

Regina Henderer painted this "Suffolk Latch," on paper during an unknown year. It’s fascinating to consider that Henderer, born in 1855, may have grown up in a society where gender roles were quite rigid, yet she became an artist—a field that provided avenues for women to express their creativity. Architectural drawings and renderings are commonly associated with male architects. As we contemplate this door latch, think about the literal and metaphorical significance of the threshold. Who is allowed to enter, and who is kept out? The door hardware may seem mundane, but is it also imbued with ideas of privacy, security, and exclusion? It’s a reminder that art, like daily life, is full of nuances, questioning conventional narratives and inviting diverse perspectives.