The artwork, entitled “The Age of Brass, or the Triumphs of Woman’s Rights,” was created by Currier and Ives in 1869 and is a caricature depicting themes of the Romanticism art movement.
The artwork features a satirical scene illustrating various women engaging in what were considered male roles and activities of the time, such as voting, political candidacy, and occupations. Women are depicted with exaggerated, elaborate hairstyles, and attire, often associated with the caricature genre, to emphasize the humor and criticism embedded in the illustration. Key highlights include a woman running for sheriff as indicated by a sign reading “For Sheriff, Miss Hang Man,” and another inviting votes for “The Celebrated Man Tamer.” The men in the scene are portrayed in non-traditional, more passive roles, such as caretaking. This piece serves as both a commentary on and a critique of the women’s rights movement of the 19th century.