The artwork titled “Sketch of Antoinette (no.1)” was created by the artist Mary Cassatt in 1901. This oil on canvas masterpiece is a part of the Impressionist movement, known for its vibrant use of light and color to capture everyday scenes and moments. The artwork measures 50.17 x 41.28 cm and falls within the genre of sketch and study. Presently, it resides within a private collection, signifying the value and personal importance that collectors place on Cassatt’s work.
Examining the artwork, one is immediately drawn into the intimate portrayal of the subject, presumably Antoinette, whose features are tenderly rendered with the soft, dabbing brushstrokes characteristic of Impressionism. The subject’s gaze is directed away from the viewer, suggesting a moment of introspection or quiet observation. Cassatt has captured not just a physical likeness, but an essence of the subject’s demeanor and stance.
The use of light and shadow in this artwork plays a significant role in illustrating the form and texture of Antoinette’s clothing and features. Subtle variations in skin tone, the natural fall of light across her shoulders and chest, and the careful representation of her hair demonstrate Cassatt’s skill in translating the transient effects of light into lasting visual expressions.
Moreover, the composition leaves substantial sections of the canvas loosely defined or unfinished, which is indicative of the work being a study. Such pieces often serve as explorations of form, color, or technique, which an artist might use for further development into a more refined or comprehensive artwork. In this study, Cassatt showcases her mastery of capturing human form with a delicate, yet confident application of paint, while still adhering to the stylistic spontaneity embraced by her Impressionist peers.
