The artwork entitled “Clissa Turned Left with Her Hand to Her Ear” is a creation of artist Mary Cassatt, completed in the year 1895. Utilizing the mediums of pastel on paper, Cassatt effectively captures the essence of Impressionism within this piece. The artwork spans the dimensions of 50.8 x 64.77 cm and is categorized within the portrait genre.
The artwork depicts a young girl, presumably named Clissa, positioned with her body turned to the left, as indicated by the title. Her hand is delicately placed to her ear, suggesting a moment of listening or contemplation. The softness of the pastels imbues the painting with a muted delicacy that is typical of Impressionist works. The choice of colors is notable; a range of hues brings warmth as well as depth to the composition, creating a vivid portrayal of the subject. The background is abstract and rendered with broad, sweeping movements that contrast with the more defined and detailed depiction of Clissa herself. This variance in technique serves to draw the viewer’s focus to the girl’s serene expression.
Cassatt’s mastery in handling pastels is evident in the texture and layering of colors. Her influence by the Impressionist movement can be seen in the way light and shadow play across the surfaces within the portrait, capturing a spontaneous feel within the artwork’s candid moment. The overall effect is of an intimate glimpse into a quiet, personal scene—a hallmark of Cassatt’s work and a testament to her place as a prominent figure within the Impressionist movement.
