“Woman With A Red Zinnia,” an artwork created by Mary Cassatt in 1891, is an oil on canvas painting with dimensions of 60.3 x 73.66 cm. Associated with the Impressionist movement, this portrait illustrates Cassatt’s distinct style and thematic preference for capturing the quiet moments of domestic life and the roles of women within it.
The artwork portrays a serene female figure gazing contemplatively to the side, unposed and seemingly lost in thought. She holds a bright red zinnia flower in her right hand, injecting a vivid contrast to her pale complexion and the muted tones of the setting. Her attire, a white dress adorned with delicate purple stripes, hints at the informality of the moment captured. Her posture, with one hand gently resting against her cheek, conveys a sense of introspection and grace.
The background evokes the impressionist approach to landscape with its loose, gestural brushstrokes and diffused portrayal of the outdoor environment. Cassatt’s employment of light and shadow, along with her selective use of rich yet subtle color, brings forward the contemplative essence of the woman, while situating her within a tangible though indistinct outdoor space. The expression on the subject’s face, along with the overall composition, invites the viewer to ponder what thoughts or emotions may be stirring within her, reflecting the impressionist interest in capturing the fleeting nuances of human experience.
