Mary Cassatt

Trailblazing Impressionist who redefined feminine perspectives in art

Mary Cassatt (1844–1926) transformed modern art as the only American officially associated with the French Impressionists. Her intimate portrayals of maternal bonds and domestic life elevated women's experiences into high art during an era that marginalized female creators.

Breaking from academic traditions, Cassatt employed bold compositions like in "The Child's Bath" (1893), using unconventional viewpoints to emphasize emotional connections. She introduced Japanese print techniques to Western audiences through works such as "Mother and Child" series, creating over 220 prints that influenced Post-Impressionism.

Beyond painting, Cassatt advised major U.S. collectors like Louisine Havemeyer, shaping America's Impressionist collections. Her mentorship of younger artists like Berthe Morisot helped establish women's professional networks in the male-dominated art world. The Pennsylvania Academy honors her legacy through the Mary Cassatt Chair of Painting.