After the Bullfight
- Original dimensions
- 64 x 82.5 cm
- Museum
- Chrysler Museum of Art
- Year
- 1873
Scene depicted
In this iconic work, Cassatt depicts a peaceful scene after a bullfight, where the intimacy between women and the festive atmosphere contrast with the brutality of the event. The characters, with their vibrant dresses, evoke a joy mixed with contemplation, while the exchanged glances tell silent stories of emotion and camaraderie.
Historical context
Created in 1873, in the artistic Paris of the late 19th century, the painting "After the Bullfight" is part of the Impressionist movement. At that time, Cassatt stood out as one of the few women to make her mark on the artistic scene, capturing the essence of everyday life with unparalleled sensitivity. Today, this canvas , displayed at the Chrysler Museum of Art , testifies to the dynamism and cultural transformations of a foundational era.
Place in the artist's career
"After the Bullfight" represents a pivotal moment in Cassatt's career, marking her rise to fame. Alongside her famous works like "The Reading" and "The Child with the Perfume," this painting illustrates her distinctive style, combining Impressionist technique with feminine and emotional themes, asserting her unique imprint in the art world.
Anecdote
"Every painting is a surge of the heart, a colorful song that lifts the soul," said Mary Cassatt , reflecting on the importance of emotion in her work. The inspiration for this masterpiece was born as she observed scenes of daily life, one spring day in a sunny café, the voices and laughter resonating around her, leading her to immortalize this moment of grace in her canvas .