Sewing machine

Sexual division of labour

Gender roles

Gender and space

The invention of the sewing machine brought about a revolution in 19th-century households. It made it possible not only to sew one’s own clothing, but also to reuse clothing items thanks to the ingenuity and creativity of the women who had access to this sought-after device. Since it was introduced into homes over 150 years ago, this object has been closely associated with women, as a tool for domestic use. It was only when women joined the workforce that the two gradually began to be disassociated. However, this tool must be considered in direct reference to gender roles and the sexual division of labour.