In the world of art, there are creators whose paintings illuminate the human experience, and Mary Cassatt paintings are undeniably one of those luminaries. Born into a family of privilege in 1844, Cassatt’s early exposure to culture, the arts, and the social elite set the stage for her future as a renowned artist.
In the company of close friends like Edgar Degas, Camille Pissarro, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Cassatt’s art journey was deeply influenced by Impressionism, a groundbreaking movement that revolutionized the world of art in the late 19th century. Drawing inspiration from her time in Paris and Japan, Cassatt’s unique perspective infused her work with a remarkable fusion of styles and themes, making her a key figure among the Impressionists.
Before we embark on our exploration of Mary Cassatt’s paintings, it’s essential to understand the artist herself. Cassatt’s intimate knowledge of her subjects, often portraying the everyday life of women and children, is a testament to her dedication to bringing forth the intricacies of human connection. With her enchanting self-portraits, Cassatt’s art reflects her own personality and her unwavering pursuit of excellence.
1. Mother and Child (1890)
| Date of Completion | 1890 |
| Dimensions | 30 x 25 inches |
| Location |
“Mother and Child” transports you to a serene haven where the boundless love between a mother and her little one blossoms on the canvas. Cassatt’s mastery of light and shade evokes a timeless embrace, almost as if you can feel the comforting warmth seeping from the painting.
2. The Child’s Bath (1893)
| Date of Completion | 1893 |
| Dimensions | Measuring 39 1/2 x 26 1/4 inches |
| Location | Currently resides in the Art Institute of Chicago |
In “The Child’s Bath,” Cassatt beautifully choreographs an intimate scene of maternal care. The soft pastel hues and the tender gaze of the mother create an atmosphere so serene, it’s almost like experiencing a soothing lullaby in visual form. This print was completed in the year 1893.
3. In the Loge (1878)
| Date of Completion | 1878 |
| Dimensions | Measuring 32 7/16 x 24 13/16 inches |
| Location | On display at The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston |
“In the Loge” is a fascinating glimpse into the world of entertainment from the late 1800s. The captivating figure of a lady engrossed in the performance through opera glasses takes you on a virtual balcony seat, allowing you to soak in the grandeur and excitement of the theatre.
4. The Boating Party (1893-1894)
| Date of Completion | 1893-1894 |
| Dimensions | Measures 35 x 46 1/4 inches |
| Location | Proudly showcased in the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. |
“The Boating Party” is a tranquil voyage into leisurely moments. As you gaze upon this masterpiece, you might feel the gentle sway of the boat and the whisper of the breeze, almost as if you’re joining the serene escapade yourself.
5. The Child’s Caress (1890)
| Date of Completion | 1890 |
| Dimensions | Sizing up to 25 7/16 x 21 7/16 inches |
| Location | Gracing the halls of The Detroit Institute of Arts |
“The Child’s Caress” encapsulates the tender exchange between mother and child. The gentle touch of the child’s hand on the mother’s face speaks volumes, touching the heartstrings with an emotional depth that’s unmistakably Cassatt’s signature.
6. Little Girl in a Blue Armchair (1878)
| Date of Completion | 1878 |
| Dimensions | Extending to 35 x 51 1/4 inches |
| Location | Residing in the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. |
Cassatt’s “Little Girl in a Blue Armchair” is an invitation to a vibrant, contemplative world. The vivid blue chair and the young girl’s thoughtful countenance create an enchanting tableau, where you’re almost tempted to reach out and join in the conversation.
7. The Tea (1880)
| Date of Completion | 1880 |
| Dimensions | Measuring 21 3/4 x 29 3/4 inches |
| Location | A cherished piece at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston |
“The Tea” is a delightful rendezvous with a moment frozen in time, as a woman gracefully pours tea. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth, creating an atmosphere that’s akin to a warm, welcoming hug.
8. Maternal Caress (1896)
| Date of Completion | 1896 |
| Dimensions | Sizing up to 28 x 24 1/2 inches |
| Location | Nestled in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts |
“Maternal Caress” radiates the profound bond between mother and child. The tender embrace and soft hues intertwine to paint a picture of unconditional love and tenderness, almost as if the canvas itself cradles you in a comforting cocoon.
9. Lydia Seated on a Porch (c. 1880)
| Date of Completion | Created around 1880 |
| Dimensions | Spanning 36 x 28 3/4 inches |
| Location | Resides in the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. |
“Lydia Seated on a Porch” invites you to a tranquil sanctuary. You might just catch a whiff of the serene breeze and hear the whispers of the leaves as you immerse yourself in the quiet contemplation of Lydia seated on the porch.
10. Young Mother Sewing (c. 1900)
| Date of Completion | Crafted around 1900 |
| Dimensions | Measuring 31 1/4 x 25 3/4 inches |
| Location | Cherished at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York |
“Young Mother Sewing” is a slice of life painted with poignant beauty. It’s like being right there in the room, sharing an afternoon with the young mother sewing while her child explores nearby, a scene captured with Cassatt’s characteristic attention to the minutiae of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mary Cassatt known for?
Mary Cassatt is known for being an American painter and printmaker, particularly recognized as an impressionist painter who exhibited the lives of women, with a focus on the special bond between mother and child.
Where did Mary Cassatt live most of her adult life?
Mary Cassatt lived most of her adult life in France.
What themes did Mary Cassatt often paint?
Mary Cassatt often painted themes related to motherhood and the special relationship between mothers and children.
Conclusion
As we amble through these ten celebrated Mary Cassatt paintings, it’s a vivid reminder that the beauty of life resides in the simplicity of its moments. Cassatt’s masterpieces are not mere paintings; they’re an emotional symphony that tunes into the heartstrings, inviting you to dance to the rhythms of everyday life and the exquisite connections between individuals.
So, when you stand before one of Mary Cassatt’s canvases in exhibition, take a moment to soak in the tales she narrates through her brush. Her art is an open invitation to traverse through her world, where each painting is a captivating chapter in a grand story waiting for you to explore. So, pick up your virtual paintbrush and join this extraordinary journey!
