Interior: On the Sofa

Interior: On the Sofa is a notable print created by the American artist Mary Cassatt in 1883. This exquisite example of graphic art utilizes the specialized process of softground etching on wove paper. Cassatt, a master printmaker in the late nineteenth century, often employed etching to capture the intimate textures and quietude of domestic life. The softground technique allowed her to achieve a delicate, granular quality, mimicking the appearance of a pencil or chalk drawing rather than the sharp lines typical of traditional etching.

Created within the dynamic period of 1876 to 1900, this work exemplifies Cassatt’s focus on the private, interior worlds of women and children, a characteristic theme shared with her French Impressionist peers. While she worked primarily in France, the artist remained distinctly American in her viewpoint, bringing a fresh perspective to scenes of leisure and repose. Cassatt’s dedication to mastering printmaking was profound, elevating the status of these graphic forms during a time of intense artistic experimentation. She continually experimented with processes like aquatint and drypoint, ensuring that her extensive body of prints holds an important place in the history of graphic arts.

The subject, focused entirely on an interior setting and the implied presence of a figure resting on a sofa, speaks to Cassatt’s ongoing exploration of subtle psychological states within the home environment. She demonstrates her skill in composition, utilizing the soft lines of the etching process to define space and shadow without harsh contrasts.

As an important piece from this American master, the print Interior: On the Sofa is held in the prestigious collection of the National Gallery of Art. Today, many of Cassatt’s works, including key examples of her prints, are celebrated components of museum collections worldwide. Her significant contributions to art history and printmaking techniques make this a valuable resource for students and researchers, particularly as many such masterworks are increasingly available through public domain initiatives.