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.

Can I buy a print of The Coiffure?

Museum-quality prints of The Coiffure are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

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.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in graphite: M.C; lower left verso in graphite by unknown hand: Cassatt, Mary / - "The Coiffure" / 53,7 / B-30985 (?)

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.