The artwork titled “Portrait of Alexander J. Cassatt,” created by the artist Mary Cassatt in 1880, is an oil on canvas painting belonging to the Impressionism movement. The genre of this artwork is classified as a portrait. Currently, it is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts located in Detroit, Michigan, United States.
The artwork depicts Alexander J. Cassatt, the artist’s brother, seated and turned slightly to the right. His expression is thoughtful, and the setting suggests a casual, domestic environment, indicative of Mary Cassatt’s focus on intimate moments and the private lives of her subjects. The use of quick brushstrokes and the emphasis on the interplay of light are characteristic of the Impressionist style. The background appears to be a window showing glimpses of greenery, which provides a contrast to the interior where the sitter is positioned. Though the details of the face and attire are rendered with attention, the surroundings exhibit a more fluid, less detailed approach. Thus, the artist captures both the personality of the sitter and the essence of the Impressionist movement’s aesthetic principals.
