Who painted The Coiffure?

The Coiffure was painted by Mary Cassatt in 1891.

Where can I see The Coiffure?

The Coiffure is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Coiffure?

The Coiffure is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

The Coiffure

Mary Cassatt , 1891

The Coiffure is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Mary Cassatt. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Coiffure is a graphite drawing with brown wash on wove paper, created by Mary Cassatt between 1890 and 1891. It depicts a woman engaged in a personal, everyday activity.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a woman fixing her hair in front of a mirror, with soft light illuminating her bare back and shoulders. The scene conveys intimacy and quiet contemplation, characteristic of Cassatt's focus on ordinary, private moments.

Technique & Style

Cassatt employed quick, expressive pencil lines combined with a subtle brown wash to achieve a sense of softness and warmth. This approach emphasizes the natural, unposed aspect of the depicted moment.

History & Provenance

Inspiration for The Coiffure came from Cassatt's attendance at an exhibition of Japanese Ukiyo-e woodblock prints. The exact provenance details are not provided in the available information.

Context

The Coiffure reflects Cassatt's propensity for capturing everyday life, particularly the private lives of women, in a warm and realistic manner. This work stands in contrast to grand, formal portraiture.