The artwork entitled “Summertime” is an oil on canvas by Mary Cassatt, created in 1894. It is an exemplary piece of the Impressionist art movement and is classified as a genre painting. The dimensions of the artwork are 100.7 by 81.3 centimeters. Currently, “Summertime” resides in the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art located in Bentonville, Arkansas, United States.
The artwork depicts a serene outdoor scene where two figures, presumably women, are leisurely seated in a boat. They are surrounded by the dappled light reflecting off the water and are accompanied by a pleasant gathering of ducks. The attire of the women, consisting of elegant dresses and hats, suggests a relaxed, possibly high-society milieu of the late 19th century. One woman faces away from the viewer, her gaze directed toward the water, with just the outline of her straw hat visible in profile. The other is seated with her body oriented towards the viewer, her countenance pensive, and her delicate features rendered in soft, warm hues. A white flower adorns her hair, complementing the gentle atmosphere of the scene.
The dexterous brushwork is indicative of the Impressionist style, capturing the play of natural light and the vibrant colors of summer. The dynamic strokes create a texture that animates the surface of the water and brings a sense of immediacy and life to the ducks. Cassatt’s expert use of color and light conveys not just the visual experience of summertime but the tranquil mood that comes with it, encouraging the viewer to reflect on the simple pleasures of a moment spent in nature.
