Women artists in 19th-century America were relatively rare. The rarity can be explained through a combination of social, cultural, and economic factors:

1. Societal Norms and Gender Roles

In the 19th century, American society largely adhered to traditional gender roles, which restricted women's professional opportunities. The prevailing view was that women should focus on domestic duties, and their participation in public, intellectual, or professional spheres was often limited. Art was seen as a male-dominated field, and it was generally expected that women focus on the more "feminine" activities, like teaching, needlework, and domestic arts.

2. Access to Art Education

Formal training for artists, particularly in the fine arts, was dominated by institutions that often-excluded women. For example, the most prestigious art academies, such as the National Academy of Design in New York, admitted few women.

3. Limited Professional Opportunities

Even after receiving education, women artists faced significant barriers to professional success. Opportunities to exhibit their work were limited, and many women had to rely on less prestigious venues. Women artists often faced skepticism about their abilities.

As the century progressed, particularly after the Civil War, social changes began to slowly open doors for women, and by the turn of the 20th century, more women were pursuing art professionally. The rise of the women's suffrage movement and changing attitudes about women's roles in society encouraged greater participation in the arts. Today, we enjoy many talented women artists whose work is equally as beautiful as the rarity produced by their 19th century counterparts.