Kneeling in an Armchair

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our paintings: nn Before you stands "Kneeling in an Armchair," a captivating print created by the remarkable American artist, Mary Cassatt, in 1903. This piece, measuring 30.2 x 24.3 cm, is part of the National Gallery of Art's distinguished collection. nn The artwork presents a tender portrayal of a young girl, her dark hair cascading over her shoulders. She kneels gracefully on an armchair, her body angled to the left while her gaze directly meets ours. The simplicity of her light-colored dress and the sparsely detailed background, merely hinting at a wall with vertical lines, draw our attention to her captivating presence. nn Cassatt masterfully employs a range of grays in this print. Darker tones lend a sense of depth and definition to the girl's delicate features and the armchair's contours. The subtle play of light and shadow on her dress and the chair creates a sense of volume and dimensionality. nn Known for her profound depictions of women and children, particularly the intimate bond between mothers and their children, Cassatt's work often provides a glimpse into the social and private spheres of their lives. "Kneeling in an Armchair" stands as a testament to her artistic prowess and her ability to capture the quiet grace and innocence of youth.