Untitled (baby in long dress lying on quilted pillow and cover) c. 1940

This photograph by Paul Gittings captures a baby in a long dress, resting on a quilted pillow and cover. The choice of quilting is key here, signaling a domestic, labor-intensive practice. Quilting historically has been associated with women's work, community, and resourcefulness. The process involves layering fabrics and stitching them together to create a warm and decorative textile. The texture, weight, and form of the quilt provide comfort, yet also speak of a cultural history deeply rooted in skill, time, and care. While the photograph itself may have been quickly captured, the backdrop evokes a slower, more deliberate pace of life. It reminds us that even in the age of mechanical reproduction, handmade objects carry social and cultural significance, challenging our understanding of value and labor. Appreciating the materials, processes, and context allows us to see the full story embedded in this intimate image.