The Fitting

"The Fitting" is an intimate and technically refined print created by the American artist Mary Cassatt between 1890 and 1891. Executed primarily in drypoint on laid paper, this work demonstrates Cassatt’s dedicated experimentation with graphic media during the late 19th century, specifically the period defined as 1876 to 1900. The drypoint technique requires the artist to scratch directly into the copper plate using a sharp needle, raising a burr that holds ink, resulting in a unique softness and velvety quality in the resulting lines when printed. Cassatt’s meticulous drafting skills are evident in the precise yet delicate handling of form and shadow, leveraging the subtle variations provided by the medium.

A key figure in the Impressionist movement, Cassatt was renowned for her sensitive and observant depictions of women engaged in private, domestic activities, a recurring subject central to The Fitting. The composition captures a moment of focused interaction, likely between a seamstress or dressmaker and the subject being fitted. This domestic scene highlights the detailed rituals of female life during the late Victorian era. The print’s tight cropping and strong linear design reflect the profound influence of Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints, which inspired Cassatt to explore graphic media as an end in itself rather than merely a reproductive tool.

Classified as an important fine art print, this impression of The Fitting is held in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. It stands as a prime example of Cassatt’s technical maturity and her pioneering role in American art abroad. The piece illustrates her ability to imbue everyday acts with dignity and emotional depth. As a highly valued artwork from this significant historical period, prints of this composition are often widely studied and, where designated, made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring the broad appreciation of Cassatt's enduring artistic legacy.