Reflection

Reflection by Mary Cassatt American, 1844-1926, is a notable example of the artist's dedication to graphic processes and her exploration of intimate, domestic subject matter. Executed in 1889, this fine print is an etching rendered in rich dark brown ink on ivory laid paper. This medium highlights Cassatt's technical skill in achieving delicate line work and controlling tonal variation, demanding qualities in the process of intaglio printing.

The period of 1889 represents a critical phase in Cassatt’s career, immediately preceding her iconic series of color prints influenced by Japanese ukiyo-e masters. While the specific visual details of Reflection are conveyed through monochrome etched lines, the work retains the artist’s signature attention to composition and psychological nuance, focusing on the internal world of women. Cassatt, a pivotal figure who bridged artistic movements between the United States and France, used printmaking not merely as a reproductive technique but as an independent creative outlet.

The delicate handling of the etching plate, visible in the textural qualities of the dark brown ink, showcases Cassatt’s ability to define atmosphere and character using minimal means. The resulting image is a powerful demonstration of her mastery over the graphic arts. This classification as a print confirms her broader contribution to late nineteenth-century art in both Europe and the United States. This significant impression of Reflection is housed within the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, providing scholars and the public an invaluable resource for studying the evolution of modern graphic prints.