This lot consists of a framed pastel portrait on paper, done in the impressionist style of American painter Mary Stevenson Cassatt (1844-1926). A handwritten inscription at lower right corner reads, "Mary Cassatt 1906". Image depicts a woman of delicate beauty and fair complexion who smiles knowingly at the viewer. Delicate lines and expressive strokes give this piece a gentle glow and a realistic dimension. The artists's use of light immediately draws the viewer into the subject's dark and glistening eyes. Expertly rendered in the Impressionist style for which Mary Cassatt is so well known. This piece would be a sure highlight to any collection. Framed piece measures approximately 31.75" x 26.75"; image sight approximately measures 19.75" x 14.25".

Mary Stevenson Cassatt (1844-1926) was an American painter and printmaker. She was born in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania (now part of Pittsburgh's North Side), but lived much of her adult life in France. It was during her time in Europe that Cassatt first befriended the painter Edgar Degas (French, 1834-1917) and later exhibited among the Impressionists. Cassatt often created images that portrayed the public and the private lives of women, with particular emphasis on the intimate bonds shared between mothers and infants.

Cassatt was described by Gustave Geffroy in 1894 as one of "les trois grandes dames" (the three great ladies) of Impressionism, alongside Marie Bracquemond and Berthe Morisot. In 1879, Diego Martelli further described Cassatt as a young American woman who, like Degas, seeks movement, light, and design in the most modern sense.

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection from Upstate New York

DIMENSIONS:
Framed approx. 31.75" x 26.75"; image sight approx. 19.75" x 14.25".



Finger Lakes Auction has been commissioned to liquidate a once-in-a-lifetime fine art collection from an Upstate New York Estate. Pieces contained in this auction are some of the finest paintings ever to be offered through our Art Gallery.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall excellent condition. Little to no signs of age or aesthetic wear. Pastel colors remain clear and bright. The frame and matte border show no signs of aesthetic distress. Please examine photos for further detail.