Printmaker Biographies

Mary Cassatt

(1844–1926)

“The Map” by Mary Cassott

Mary Cassatt, an American painter and printmaker, was a leading figure in the Impressionist movement and a trailblazer for women in the arts. 

Born in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, Cassatt studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts before moving to Paris in 1866 to immerse herself in the vibrant European art scene. Cassatt was one of the few American artists to exhibit with the Impressionists, forging close relationships with figures like Edgar Degas, who profoundly influenced her work.

While she is best known for her intimate depictions of mothers and children, her printmaking achievements were equally groundbreaking. In the late 19th century, Cassatt embraced etching and drypoint, experimenting with techniques that allowed her to achieve delicate tonal effects.

Her prints, such as The Bath and The Letter, showcase her keen observational skills and mastery of line, texture, and composition. These works were often inspired by Japanese ukiyo-e prints, which she admired for their simplicity and elegance.

Cassatt’s advocacy for printmaking helped elevate the medium’s status in the United States, where she introduced many collectors to both Impressionist art and etching. Her legacy as a printmaker and pioneer of modern art continues to inspire.