During the Gilded Age (ca. 1877–1900), American Impres- sionist John Henry Twachtman frequently painted domestic scenes that reflected an idealized and traditional view of motherhood. He did so during a period that was in reality marked by rapidly shifting social norms and roles, particularly for women.
Here he depicted his wife, Martha, holding up their seven- month-old baby Quentin to a mirror. As she gazes lovingly at her son, he stares at his reflection, and the viewer wonders if he will react with pleasure or surprise. The painting also features another artwork hanging behind Martha on the right side of the canvas, locating the scene in the artist’s home.
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