The Caress
1891
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1891
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Caress is a 1891 ink by Mary Cassatt, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This painting depicts a tender moment between a woman and a child. The woman, with her hair pulled back, gently touches the child's face with her right hand. The child, dressed in a simple white garment, looks up at the woman with a curious expression. The background is a soft, muted color, which helps to focus attention on the intimate interaction between the two figures. The artist's use of drypoint on laid paper creates a sense of texture and depth in the image. The subtle play of light and shadow adds warmth and emotion to the scene. For more information on the artist's use of chiaroscuro, explore the works of Cassatt, Mary.
