The artwork titled “Susan Comforting the Baby (no.2)” was created by the artist Mary Cassatt around 1881. This oil on canvas masterpiece is a notable example of the Impressionist movement and falls within the genre painting category. Measuring approximately 65.09 by 101.28 centimeters, the work is part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH) located in Houston, TX, United States.
The painting captures an intimate moment between a woman and a child. With her lips poised close to the baby’s forehead, the woman appears to be comforting the child, who gazes directly out with an expression that could be interpreted as one of concern or contemplation. The brushstrokes convey the softness of the scene, lending a tactile quality to the woman’s clothing and the baby’s delicate skin. There is a sense of casual ease in the composition, as the woman’s arm gently encircles the baby. The background is sketchy and impressionistic, offering hints of lush greenery and florals without detracting from the central figures. Overall, the image is suffused with a gentle luminosity, showcasing Cassatt’s ability to portray the tender and everyday connections between individuals.
