The Caress by Mary Cassatt, created in 1891, is a masterful example of the artist’s contribution to the graphic arts, rendered in drypoint on laid paper. This delicate print, dating from the pivotal period of 1876 to 1900, reflects Cassatt's sustained focus on domestic intimacy and the intricate relationships between women and children, a subject that defined her critical reputation. Although American by birth, Cassatt was deeply influential in the Parisian avant-garde, distinguishing herself as the only American invited to exhibit with the French Impressionists, and particularly celebrated for her innovative approach to printmaking.
Cassatt chose the drypoint technique for its expressive qualities. Unlike etching, drypoint involves incising the copper plate directly with a needle, pulling up a distinctive burr of metal along the groove. It is this burr that holds the ink, yielding immediate, rich, and velvety lines when printed—an effect ideally suited for capturing the softness of skin and fabric. The work depicts a moment of maternal affection, emphasizing the physical bond and emotional connection through its carefully constructed composition and sensitive handling of light and shadow. Cassatt’s profound understanding of Japanese woodblock prints is subtly evident in the clean outlines and selective use of negative space, demonstrating how she integrated global influences into her uniquely American perspective.
As one of the most celebrated American artists of her generation, Cassatt’s sustained exploration of graphic mediums ensured that her prints reached a wider audience than her oil canvases. This dedication allowed her to explore variations in composition and tone throughout her career. This impressive impression of the drypoint, The Caress, resides in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, where it serves as a cornerstone piece illustrating the pivotal role of women artists in the late nineteenth century. Many fine prints of this era, produced by Cassatt and her contemporaries, have entered the public domain, securing her legacy for widespread appreciation and study.
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