Steady 

Frederick Morgan, around the turn of the century, painted 'Steady', a scene seemingly plucked from idyllic rural life. But what does it mean to look at images of childhood from the past? There’s nostalgia, sure, but there’s also the weight of knowing how much social norms have changed. The children riding the horse and being watched by their elders present a vision of childhood innocence, yet this notion is complicated when we consider class dynamics. The working class were often idealized in art, their lives romanticized. But this idealization often glossed over the harsh realities of poverty and labor that defined many children’s lives. Morgan’s portrayal evokes a sense of warmth and security, emotions which resonate even today. Yet, we must also remain aware of how such images can unintentionally obscure the multifaceted experiences of children across different social strata. It is important to appreciate its emotional appeal, while critically reflecting on the societal narratives it implies.