Mary Cassatt’s painting “Young Mother Sewing” is a perfect example of her affection for showcasing women caring for children. This oil painting depicts a mother sewing while watching over her child, creating an intimate domestic scene that reflects the maternal bond between a mother and child. The technique used is Impressionism, which can be observed in the loose brushstrokes and vibrant colors.
Cassatt, who was American but lived in France, was greatly influenced by Edgar Degas to join the Impressionist circle. She blended this technique with themes inspired by Japanese artwork and Old Masters of Europe to create dynamic and unique pieces of art. Her popularity grew significantly during her lifetime; by 1900, she had established herself as an artist who focused on portraying women caring for children.
“Young Mother Sewing,” painted in 1900, depicts Cassatt’s favorite theme of maternal love and continues the tradition of genre scenes where mothers were depicted with their children enjoying leisure time at home. The intimate scene reflects Cassatt’s own cultural interest in childcare brought through close family relationships.
