Who painted The Lamp?

The Lamp was painted by Mary Cassatt in 1890.

Where can I see The Lamp?

The Lamp is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Lamp?

The Lamp is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

The Lamp

Mary Cassatt , 1890

The Lamp 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

The Lamp is a drypoint and softground etching on wove paper created by Mary Cassatt in 1890. Characterized by loose, quick lines, the print conveys a sense of sketchiness and intimacy.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene domestic scene: a woman reclined in a chair, accompanied by a table with a lamp, teapot, and cup. The subject, typical of Cassatt's focus on women's private lives, captures a quiet, everyday moment, potentially alluding to themes of solitude or contemplation.

Technique & Style

Cassatt employed drypoint and softground etching techniques. The softground method, which allows ink to adhere to the plate in textured, expressive ways, is evident in the smooth rendering of the woman's face and hair, contrasting with the overall loose, spontaneous line work.

History & Provenance

Created in 1890, The Lamp reflects Cassatt's association with the Impressionist movement during her time as an American expatriate in France. While specific provenance details are not provided, the work aligns with her exhibitions alongside Impressionist artists, including her friend Edgar Degas.

Context

Within Cassatt's oeuvre, The Lamp aligns with her thematic exploration of women's domestic and personal lives, often emphasizing maternal or solitary moments. This work, however, focuses on a solo figure, suggesting a broader interest in depicting women's everyday, unguarded moments.

Legacy

The Lamp contributes to Cassatt's legacy of portraying women's lives with nuance and sensitivity. Its technique and subject matter reflect the Impressionist emphasis on capturing modern life and the everyday, influencing subsequent generations of artists exploring domestic themes.