Under the Horse-Chestnut Tree

Under the Horse-Chestnut Tree is a crucial print created by Mary Cassatt between 1896 and 1897. This delicate piece exemplifies Cassatt's dedication to mastering complex printmaking techniques late in the 19th century, specifically the combination of color drypoint and aquatint. The drypoint provides sharp, precise lines that define the figures and structural elements, while the aquatint process, which utilizes acid-resistant grounds to achieve varied tonal fields, allows for rich, atmospheric coloration and texture. This challenging technique was highly effective for producing subtle effects of light and shadow, often mirroring the nuanced compositions found in her contemporaneous pastels.

The piece belongs to the artistic period spanning 1876 to 1900, a transformative era when American artists like Cassatt were profoundly influenced by the Impressionist movement. Although based primarily in France, Cassatt remained a leading American innovator who focused intensely on domestic subjects, especially the intimate relationship between mother and child. In this work, the subject is situated outdoors, where dappled light filters through the dense foliage of the horse-chestnut tree. This emphasis on transitory light and outdoor setting aligns with Impressionist aesthetics applied to the graphic medium.

Cassatt experimented widely with various stages of her plates, often limiting the edition size to ensure high quality and complete control over the final coloring. Her significant contribution to graphic arts elevated the status of the print medium within the art world. This exemplary piece is classified within the American collection and is held by the National Gallery of Art. The work serves as a powerful reminder of the technical and artistic sophistication achieved by Cassatt during the height of her printmaking career, offering insight into the delicate beauty captured in her celebrated series of color prints.