Young Mother Sewing
Painting on canvas • Mary Cassatt (American, 1844–1926)
Style & Movement
Impressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; features loose, painterly brushwork, rapid strokes, and high-keyed palette characteristic of Impressionism with localized impasto on highlights.
Creation Period
Circa 1900
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 92.4 x 73.7 cm; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A domestic scene depicting a woman in a striped dress and turquoise pinafore focused on sewing a white cloth, while a young girl leans against her lap, gazing toward the viewer. To the left is a blue and white ginger jar with orange marigolds. The scene captures the intimate, mundane moments of maternal life.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the surface appears stable with some fine craquelure visible in the lighter passages and along the stretchers. Colors remain vibrant.
Estimated Market Value
$15,000,000 - $25,000,000 (Based on top-tier Cassatt market performance)
Auction Estimate
$12,000,000 - $18,000,000
Provenance History
Originally in the collection of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, New York; Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1929.
Art Historical Significance
A quintessential work from Cassatt's mature period, exemplifying her mastery of the mother-and-child theme. It highlights her ability to elevate domestic life to high art and her influence in bringing French Impressionist aesthetics to American collectors.
Notable Features
The use of the diagonal window frame to ground the composition; the contrast between the mother's focused industriousness and the child's idle curiosity; the 'Chinoiserie' influence through the blue and white porcelain.
Condition Issues
Minor age-related craquelure; slight yellowing of old varnish may be present, though it appears well-maintained.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain controlled humidity and temperature; UV-filtered glazing for display; surface cleaning by a professional conservator if varnish yellowing progresses.