Mary Cassatt (1844–1926) was an influential American painter and printmaker, best known for her tender depictions of mothers and children. Born in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, she studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts before moving to Paris, where she immersed herself in the vibrant art scene. There, she connected with the Impressionist group and became a close friend of Edgar Degas, who greatly influenced her artistic style.
Cassatt’s work is celebrated for its intimate portrayals of domestic life, particularly the bond between mothers and their children. She skillfully captured subtle emotions through loose brushwork, soft lighting, and a refined color palette. Her innovative use of pastel and printmaking techniques helped expand the range of Impressionist art.
Despite facing gender-based barriers in the male-dominated art world, Cassatt achieved significant success in both Europe and the United States. She played a key role in promoting French Impressionism to American collectors, helping shape American art tastes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Cassatt never married, dedicating her life to her art. She gradually lost her sight later in life, which forced her to stop painting. Today, she remains a celebrated figure in art history and a pioneer for women artists.