Snuffbox with miniature of a mother nursing a child 1775 - 1776

This snuffbox with a miniature of a mother nursing a child was made by Joseph Etienne Blerzy around the late 18th century. During this time, France was on the verge of revolution and the image of motherhood was idealized as virtuous and natural. The miniature on this snuffbox depicts a tender scene of maternal care. It's an intimate portrayal, yet it also reflects the societal expectations placed on women of the era to be nurturing caregivers. While it seems sentimental, it’s worth considering how such images served to reinforce specific gender roles, particularly for upper-class women. The snuffbox itself, a luxury item, speaks to the class dynamics that shaped the creation and consumption of art during this period. Looking at this snuffbox, it’s hard not to wonder about the real, lived experiences of mothers. It serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal emotions and broader social forces.