The artwork entitled “Baby Lying on His Mother’s Lap, reaching to hold a scarf” is a pastel on paper created by the artist Mary Cassatt in 1914. Cassatt, an influential figure in the Impressionism art movement, is renowned for her genre paintings that often depict the social and private lives of women, with a particular focus on the intimate bonds between mothers and children. Currently, this piece is held in a private collection, emphasizing the personal and exclusive nature of the work.
The artwork captures an intimate moment of a child lying on his mother’s lap, reaching out to grasp a brightly colored scarf. The use of pastel allows for soft yet vibrant strokes that give life to the scene, with the contrasting colors and textures drawing the viewer’s eye to the interaction between the mother and child. Cassatt’s impressionist style is evident in the loose, expressive lines and the way the figures are enveloped in a harmonious blend of colors, reflecting the warmth of the maternal bond. The mother’s gaze is directed tenderly at the child, whose gesture towards the scarf suggests curiosity and playful engagement. The artwork serves as a snapshot of everyday life, encapsulating the tender and loving relationship often found in the quiet moments shared between a mother and her offspring.
