“The Sisters,” created by artist Mary Cassatt around 1885, is a captivating work of art that exemplifies the Impressionist movement. Rendered in oil on canvas, this portrait genre artwork resides within the collection of the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, located in Glasgow, UK.
The artwork presents a tender and intimate portrayal of two young girls closely embracing one another, likely siblings given the title. Their expressions are rendered with sensitivity, capturing a moment of quiet companionship and affection. Cassatt’s use of soft, fluid brushstrokes and her attention to the effects of light render the figures with a warmth and immediacy characteristic of the Impressionist style. The children are dressed in white, which stands out against the flurry of green brushstrokes in the background, suggesting a lush, outdoor environment. There is an immediacy in their gaze and a stillness in their pose that invites reflection on family, childhood, and the enduring bonds of sisterhood. Mary Cassatt’s knack for capturing the essence of her subjects is evident in the serene yet expressive faces of the girls, which offers viewers a glimpse into the private world of siblings.
