The artwork “Susan Seated Outdoors Wearing a Purple Hat” is an exquisite piece by the artist Mary Cassatt, dated circa 1881. Crafted with oil on canvas, it is a fine example of the Impressionist movement, primarily an expressive portrayal in the genre of portraiture. The painting currently resides in a private collection, away from the public eye yet celebrated among art connoisseurs.
The portrait depicts a young girl named Susan, thoughtfully seated in an outdoor setting. Her clothing is rendered in dark tones, with a black jacket that contrasts with the vibrant greenery in the background. The focal point of the artwork is the purple hat adorning the subject’s head, its hue and the gentle folds catching the viewer’s interest. With her complexion softly illuminated, there is a delicate play of light and shadow on her face, showcasing Cassatt’s deft touch with the brush. Her gaze, cast slightly to the side, adds an air of contemplation and tranquility to the scene, inviting observers to ponder on the young girl’s thoughts.
The use of loose, rapid brushstrokes typical of the Impressionist style imbues the composition with a sense of immediacy and captures the essence of the moment. The background with its abstract greenery and hints of yellow appears lush and yet understated, allowing the subject to remain the undisputed center of attention. The painting’s soft edges and the outdoor setting are characteristic of Impressionist art, which often focused on depicting modern life and the effects of light.
Overall, the artwork stands as a testament to Mary Cassatt’s mastery in portraying intimate moments and her significant role in the Impressionist movement.
