Snood c. 1941

Stella Mosher’s drawing titled "Snood" gives us a glimpse into the domestic life of women during her time. Born in 1855, Mosher lived through an era marked by distinct gender roles, where women’s identities were often tied to their domestic skills. The snood, a type of hairnet, was a common accessory, symbolizing modesty and practicality. This drawing emphasizes the importance of such items in shaping a woman’s identity and presentation. The delicate rendering of the net and beads invites us to consider the labor involved in creating and maintaining such objects. The choice of subject reflects Mosher's own lived experience as a woman navigating the constraints and expectations of her time. This drawing captures a sense of quiet domesticity, reflecting both the beauty and the limitations of women's roles. The image lingers in the space between constraint and adornment.