Artwork
The Reader
The Reader is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Mary Cassatt. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
About this work
Overview
The Reader is a painting created by Mary Cassatt in 1889, exemplifying her work within the Impressionist movement. Executed in oil paint, it is characteristic of her focus on domestic scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a woman absorbed in reading, dressed in a white dress with a blue scarf. Her blurred face emphasizes her engagement with the book, creating an atmosphere of quiet contemplation.
Technique & Style
Soft brushstrokes and the use of oil paint convey a sense of warmth and intimacy. The plain white background and the subject's attire contribute to the serene ambiance, drawing the viewer into the private moment.
History & Provenance
The Reader is part of the collection at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Mary Cassatt, an American artist living in France, was associated with the Impressionists and known for her portrayals of women's lives.
Artist & collection
Artist
Mary Stevenson Cassatt (; May 22, 1844 – June 14, 1926) was an American painter and printmaker.
Museum
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
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