The artwork entitled “Woman on a Striped Sofa with a Dog” is an oil on panel painting created circa 1875 by the artist Mary Cassatt. The painting exemplifies the Impressionist movement’s style and technique. It measures 41.91 cm by 33.34 cm and falls under the portrait genre. Currently, the piece is housed at the Fogg Museum, which is part of the Harvard Art Museums located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States.
The artwork depicts a relaxed, seemingly introspective woman seated on a brightly striped sofa or chaise. She is adorned in a flowing white dress that drapes elegantly across her form, with touches of light reflecting off the fabric, demonstrating Cassatt’s command of light and color associated with Impressionist techniques. Her face is turned slightly towards the viewer, showing a serene expression, with her cheeks brushed by a modest flush and a headband holding her hair in place. Beside the woman is a small, attentive black dog, captured mid-gaze as it looks up towards its owner. The scene is imbued with domestic tranquility, emphasized by the painter’s use of swift, loose brushstrokes that create a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The contrasting colors and textures between the sitter’s attire, the dog’s glossy fur, and the vibrant sofa serve not only to center the composition but also to underscore the affectionate relationship between the woman and her companion. The background is executed in darker tones, which push the figures to the forefront, highlighting their quiet interaction. Overall, the artwork is a fine representation of Cassatt’s focus on capturing the essence of private moments and the subtle dynamics of human relationships within her oeuvre.
