The
Portrait of Mary Cassatt, painted by the renowned French artist
Edgar Degas in 1876-1878, is a captivating oil on paper painting that showcases the artist's mastery of capturing the essence of his subjects. This portrait is now part of the esteemed collection at the
National Portrait Gallery, The Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA.
The Subject: Mary Cassatt
Mary Stevenson Cassatt was an American painter and printmaker who lived much of her adult life in France. She befriended Edgar Degas and later exhibited among the Impressionists. Her artistic journey began with frustration over the limited art training available to her in Philadelphia, leading her to study in France and Spain before settling in Paris in 1874.
Artistic Significance
The painting is a testament to Degas's ability to capture the psychological complexity of his subjects. Mary Cassatt is depicted seated, holding cards, with a serious expression on her face. Her posture suggests deep thought or contemplation. In the background, another person is partially visible, adding an air of mystery to the scene.
Impressionist Influence
Edgar Degas was a key figure in the Impressionist movement, although he preferred to be called a realist. His work often featured dancers, racehorses, and portraits, all characterized by their masterful depiction of movement and human isolation. The
Portrait of Mary Cassatt reflects these themes, showcasing Degas's skill in capturing the subtleties of human emotion.
Relevance to Art History
The Impressionist movement, which included artists like Claude Monet, was marked by its emphasis on light and color. The term "Impressionism" was coined from Monet's painting
Impression, soleil levant (Impression, Sunrise), which provoked a satirical review in the Parisian newspaper Le Charivari.
Conclusion
The
Portrait of Mary Cassatt by Edgar Degas is a significant work that highlights the artist's ability to capture the essence of his subjects. It is a testament to the Impressionist movement and its influence on modern art. For those interested in exploring more works by Degas, visit
https://ArtsDot.com/@@/5ZKC8Y-Edgar-Degas-Portrait-of-Mary-Cassatt and discover the beauty of handmade oil painting reproductions.
- Artist: Edgar Degas
- Painting Title: Portrait of Mary Cassatt
- Museum: National Portrait Gallery, The Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
For more information on Impressionism and its artists, refer to
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impressionism.