Artwork
Maternal Caress
Maternal Caress is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Mary Cassatt. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Maternal Caress, a print created by Mary Cassatt in 1890, combines color drypoint, softground etching, and aquatint techniques to depict an intimate domestic scene.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a woman tenderly holding a baby on a bed or couch, capturing a quiet, everyday moment of maternal affection. The baby’s relaxed pose, with eyes closed and hand clutching the woman’s arm, conveys a sense of comfort and security.
Technique & Style
Cassatt employed a mix of techniques: drypoint for lines, softground etching for textures, and aquatint for tonal variations. The blurry, warm-toned background, achieved through these methods, contrasts with the defined figures, emphasizing their emotional connection.
History & Provenance
As an American Impressionist in France, Cassatt’s work often explored mother-child relationships. Her friendship with Edgar Degas influenced her printmaking explorations, though specific provenance details for this piece are not provided.
Context
Maternal Caress reflects Cassatt’s focus on capturing the intimacy of domestic life, a common theme among Impressionists who sought to portray modern, everyday moments.
Artist & collection
Artist
Mary Stevenson Cassatt (; May 22, 1844 – June 14, 1926) was an American painter and printmaker.
