Description
The painting "On the Balcony" by Mary Cassatt is a masterpiece of impressionism that shows an everyday scene of bourgeois life in the 19th century. The composition of the work is impressive, as Cassatt manages to capture the intimacy of the scene while playing with perspective and depth of field.
The use of color in the painting is another interesting aspect. Cassatt uses a soft and delicate palette, with pastel tones that create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Pink and blue tones blend perfectly to create a sense of harmony and balance.
The story behind the painting is also fascinating. Cassatt was inspired by the life of her friend and patron, the American writer Elizabeth Gardner Bouguereau, who lived in Paris with her husband, the painter William-Adolphe Bouguereau. The work was first exhibited at the 1890 Paris Salon, where it received rave reviews.
Perhaps one of the lesser known aspects of the painting is the influence of Japanese art on Cassatt's work. The artist was a great admirer of the Japanese aesthetic and her style is reflected in the delicacy of the composition and the use of line and negative space.
In short, "On the Balcony" is an impressive painting that combines the intimacy of everyday life with the aesthetics of impressionism and the influence of Japanese art. A masterpiece that continues to captivate viewers to this day.