A Townhouse in 1878

Illustrated by Edward Whymper, this children’s book from about 1855 shows the complex bond between ayahs and the children they looked after. Although her services are appreciated, the ayah is constantly reminded of her marginalised place in British society through differences in her race and class.

Cousin Johnny and his Indian Maid, Charlotte O’Brien, Groombridge and Son, about 1855, Credit: Tian Khee Siong

Although they originated as male garments in India, shawls gained popularity among European women from the 1750s to the 1870s. Some travelling ayahs traded Indian commodities in the UK such as jewels and fabrics and would return with European objects to sell in India. Travelling ayahs often showed entrepreneurship, making the most of their situation.

Pashmina shawls, Credit: Jaron James

Children are very much at the centre of this home, sharing the parlour with their parents and using the space to learn and play with their toys. By the 1870s attitudes towards childhood were idealised; it was seen as a joyous time of life to be cherished. 

Toys, Credit: Jaron James

Solomon depicts a poignant moment between an ayah and the two young children in her care. The model for the ayah, Fanny Eaton, was born in Jamaica and often modelled for the Pre-Raphaelite artists when she set up home in London. Her depiction challenges traditional representations of Britain in the 1800s, but also raises questions about how people of colour were viewed, as she is being represented as ethnically Asian in this painting.

A Young Teacher, Rebecca Solomon, 1863, Credit: Museum of the Home