Waffle Iron c. 1938

Ralph Morton created this watercolor and graphite drawing of a Waffle Iron at an unknown date. This image presents more than just a kitchen utensil; it invites us to consider the cultural significance of everyday objects. Made in America, this waffle iron reflects the burgeoning consumer culture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period marked by industrial progress and the rise of middle-class domesticity. As we examine this representation, we can investigate how it embodies values such as comfort, convenience, and family togetherness. The humble waffle iron becomes a symbol of a changing society, a testament to the evolving relationship between Americans and their material possessions. To truly understand the context of this work, one must consider the social conditions that shape artistic production. By consulting historical records, advertisements, and domestic manuals, we can explore the cultural significance of objects like this waffle iron and gain insight into the values and aspirations of the time.