The artwork “Baby Smiling up at Her Mother” is a creation of the esteemed artist Mary Cassatt, dating back to the year 1897. Crafted with pastel on paper, this piece is indicative of the Impressionist movement, which is characterized by its depiction of light and its immediate effect. The genre this work falls under is genre painting, showcasing scenes of everyday life. As for its current whereabouts, the artwork is held in a private collection, thus it is not on public display.
In “Baby Smiling up at Her Mother,” Cassatt captures an intimate moment shared between a mother and her child. The mother, dressed in a blue garment that envelops her figure with warmth, is gazing down tenderly at her young child. The baby is depicted with a joyful expression, gazing upward at her mother and displaying a radiant smile. The figures are composed with soft, sketch-like strokes, emblematic of the Impressionist style that emphasizes the fleeting moments of life. The pastel hues meld with one another, creating a harmonious blend of color that conveys the delicate and affectionate atmosphere surrounding the pair. The softness of the medium, the diffuse light, and the brushwork all contribute to the tender emotion and domestic tranquility this artwork exudes, making it a poignant example of Cassatt’s adeptness in portraying the intimate bonds of family life.
