Independent, single and without descendants, Mary Cassatt nevertheless produced most of her artwork on the theme of motherhood and childhood, as if to exorcise a model imposed by society that she didn't appreciate.
Independent, single and without descendants, Mary Cassatt nevertheless produced most of her artwork on the theme of motherhood and childhood, as if to exorcise a model imposed by society that she didn't appreciate. Far from being a simple follower, her style was perfectly in line with the Impressionist approach (vibrant palette, play of light, Japanese motifs), and she played a key role in the export of the movement, especially to the United States. She helped the dealer Paul Durand-Ruel to set up his gallery across the Atlantic and used her network of American friends and collectors to promote the modern cause.