Cook and Mistress
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cook and Mistress
The cook reproaches the lady of the house for coming into her kitchen without knocking first
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 623407
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10062910
1857 Coming Cook Cooking Interruption Kitchen Knocking Mistress Reproaches Servant Servants
EDITORS COMMENTS
Cook and Mistress, 1857 - A Scene of Domestic Discord in an English Kitchen This evocative photograph, taken in 1857, captures a moment of tension and reproach between a cook and her mistress in a traditional English kitchen. The cook, dressed in her apron and with a stern expression, turns to face the intruding lady of the house, who has entered the kitchen without knocking. The mistress, seemingly unaware of the breach of etiquette, looks on with a casual air, her hands in her pockets. The kitchen, the heart of the home in Victorian England, was the domain of the cook and other domestic servants. The cook was responsible for preparing meals for the entire household, often working long hours in cramped and hot conditions. The unspoken rule was that the mistress or other members of the family should not enter the kitchen without being summoned, as to do so was seen as an interruption and a breach of privacy. This photograph offers a glimpse into the complex power dynamics of Victorian domestic life. The cook, as a servant, held a subordinate position in the household hierarchy, yet she was essential to the smooth running of the household. The mistress, on the other hand, held the power and authority, but was expected to respect the boundaries of her servants' workspaces. The scene depicted in this photograph is a common one in the annals of Victorian history, yet it continues to resonate with modern audiences. The image invites us to reflect on the importance of respect, privacy, and the power dynamics that exist within domestic spaces. It also serves as a reminder of the vital role that servants played in the daily lives of Victorian households, and the complex relationships that existed between them and their employers.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
