Describe the characteristics of the Women's movement in The Babylonian Marriage Market's Historical context.
Edwin Long is thought to have conceived the painting in direct response to creation of the new laws centred around women's ownership and the ongoing women's suffrage movement. The Married Women's Property Act 1870 gave women the right to retain property even once they were married. This was regarded as significant as prior to the law property of a married woman would be immediately given to the husband. Holloway College notes that while this law was a significant improvement from the previous one, many women remained uncontented and demanded greater reform.
Holloway College painting Married Women's Property Act 1870 women's suffrage Edwin Long