“The Coiffure study,” created by Mary Cassatt between 1890 and 1891, is a work of art executed in the medium of drypoint, demonstrating the influence of Impressionism and Japonism. This piece is categorized as a nude painting (nu) and it is part of the collection at the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) located in Paris, France.
In the artwork, viewers are presented with an intimate scene of a woman seen from the back as she arranges her hair. Characteristic of the Impressionist movement, Cassatt captures a fleeting moment of everyday life, portraying the woman with a sense of immediacy and realism. The composition’s soft lines and muted color palette underscore the gentle action of the subject, while the reflection in the mirror doubles the central figure, adding depth and complexity to the scene. We observe the subtle play of light and the refined decorative patterns that adorn the background, hallmarks of Japonism, which influenced many European artists of the time. The cloth with a stripe pattern provides a vibrant contrast to the delicate flesh tones and the floral backdrop, showcasing Cassatt’s sensitivity to color and texture. This scene is not only an exploration of form and beauty but also a celebration of the private, serene moments that constitute daily life.
