Reading the Newspaper, No. 2

Reading the Newspaper, No. 2 by Mary Cassatt American, 1844-1926, is a profound example of the artist’s commitment to the graphic arts and her nuanced study of modern, domestic life. Created in 1883, the work showcases Cassatt’s technical mastery through the combined processes of soft ground etching and aquatint, executed on cream laid paper. This complex selection of media allowed the artist to achieve rich, painterly tonalities and delicate textural effects, pushing the boundaries of what was expected from an artistic print during the late nineteenth century.

The subject matter focuses on a contemplative moment, likely depicting a figure engaged in the newly popularized activity of reading a newspaper. Cassatt frequently utilized her prints to observe and document the psychological depth and subtle gestures of women in private settings, emphasizing their intellectual and emotional lives rather than traditional, posed femininity. This piece reflects the Impressionist tendency to capture ephemeral slices of reality and elevate mundane activities into serious art.

As a leading American artist working primarily within the avant-garde circle in Paris, Cassatt brought her unique perspective to the movement. Her graphic output was instrumental in developing the appreciation for fine art prints among collectors in the United States. This sophisticated impression, which encapsulates the high point of 1844-1926’s printmaking career, resides within the extensive collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Its historical importance means that high-quality imagery of the work is often made available in the public domain, ensuring the lasting influence of Cassatt’s innovative techniques.