The artwork titled “Woman’s Head with Large Hat” was created by the esteemed artist Mary Cassatt around 1909. Cassatt executed this work in pastel, a medium known for its vibrant color and texture, which she deftly used to capture the essence of her subject. Exhibiting the distinctive characteristics of the Impressionism movement, this portrait measures 71.12 x 57.79 cm. Currently, this portrait resides within a private collection, signifying its value and the esteem in which Cassatt’s work is held.
The artwork showcases a female figure, rendered with loose but deliberate strokes that embody the impressionistic style. A striking feature of the portrait is the large, flamboyant hat, adorned with voluminous blue ribbons that cascade around the sides, adding a vivid contrast to the warm, earthy tones of the background. The woman’s face, with its delicate features and subtle shading, conveys a sense of introspection and poise. The artist captures the light as it softly diffuses across the subject’s face and hat, creating a harmonious interplay of shadows and highlights. Her gaze appears to be directed toward a distant point, inviting viewers to ponder the subject’s thoughts or focus. With her use of pastel, Cassatt not only creates a rich visual texture but also evokes an atmosphere of gentle elegance, typical of her contributions to the Impressionist movement and the genre of portraiture.
