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Repose, by Mary Cassatt, ink, 1890

Repose

Mary Cassatt

1890

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

Repose is a 1890 ink by Mary Cassatt, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Mary Cassatt
When & what style?
1890 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a woman sitting with a child on her lap. She’s dressed simply, with a high-necked blouse and a patterned dress. The child leans against her, looking down. The lines are loose and quick, like the artist was drawing fast. Notice how the woman’s face is almost blank—no smile, no strong expression. The focus is on the quiet moment, not fancy details. The artist used a drypoint needle to scratch into the paper, creating soft, shadowy lines. If you like this style, look up Impressionism next.

About the artist

Portrait of Mary Cassatt
Artist

Mary Cassatt

Mary Stevenson Cassatt (; May 22, 1844 – June 14, 1926) was an American painter and printmaker.

See the richer artist page

More by Mary Cassatt

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