Mother and Child (c. 1900) by Mary Cassatt

Mother and Child - Mary Cassatt - c.1889

Artwork Information

TitleMother and Child
ArtistMary Cassatt
Datec.1889
Mediumwatercolor
Dimensions71 x 58.5 cm
Art MovementImpressionism
Current LocationPrivate Collection
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About Mother and Child

Mary Cassatt, a member of the group of Impressionists working in and around Paris created artwork that reflected the cultural interest in child rearing and the bond between mother and child. Her specialty from 1890 was the depiction of tender moments between women and children, particularly mothers with their offspring. The Child’s Bath shows how physically close these figures were, suggesting an intimate connection in The bond between mother and child.

In 1905 Mary painted Mother And Child which features a scene where a mother holding her child are looking into a mirror. This work is striking because it conveys maternal affection with astonishing intimacy as if Cassatt was present beside them during that moment. The figure composition of this painting is influenced by religious iconography from Italian Renaissance – particularly its oval mirror featured prominently behind each figure.

The exceptional use of color and brushstrokes create depth in Mother And Child’s evocation to harmonious domestic life. Cassatt’s work may have been rooted in French academic art while developing her voice through impressionism style however; her paintings often highlighted feminist themes well before her contemporaries started discussions on gender equity.

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