The artwork titled “The Barefoot Child” was created by the artist Mary Cassatt between 1896 and 1897. It is an exemplary piece of the Impressionism art movement, well-known for its genre painting style that depicts scenes of everyday life. Currently, the artwork is housed in a private collection, signifying that it is under the ownership of an individual or an entity preferring to keep it out of the public domain.
The artwork presents a tender and intimate scene featuring a caregiver, possibly a mother, seated with a young child on her lap. The child, presumably the ‘barefoot child’ referred to in the title, appears relaxed and comfortably nestled against the adult, drawing attention to the idea of maternal care and affection that is a recurring theme in Cassatt’s oeuvre. This scene is captured in a domestic setting, which adds to the genre painting’s characteristic of illustrating ordinary events.
Stylistically, the Impressionist influence in the artwork is visible through the loose brushwork, the emphasis on the play of light, and a composition that suggests a candid moment rather than a formally posed portrait. The color palette consists of warm tones that envelop the subjects in a soft glow, enhancing the feeling of comfort and closeness between them. Cassatt’s work often focused on the social and private lives of women, and “The Barefoot Child” is a beautiful representation of her dedication to these themes.
