Sara Wearing Her Bonnet and Coat

Mary Cassatt is best known for her depictions of women and children. Having settled on the outskirts of Paris, she would call upon family members, neighbors, and even acquaintances to serve as her models. As is the case with Sara, Cassatt often used the same models repeatedly. Here, the artist’s swift but adept strokes give the impression of a bonnet and coat. The lines, especially those that move outward from the child, are expressed loosely and suggest motion. The ribbon of the bonnet tied securely just beneath the little girl’s chin is rendered vaguely; and yet, Cassatt has given just enough information for the viewer to fill in the gaps. The swift execution of the ensemble and its unfinished state suggest the exuberant nature of children and imbues the work with a sense of movement and activity. Cassatt’s execution of Sara’s face, however, is detailed and grounds the portrait. The artist’s understanding of light and shadow conveys not only the details of Sara’s face, but also something of the child’s individual personality.