On a Balcony
- Original dimensions
- 25.7 x 35.5 cm
- Museum
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Year
- 1879
Scene depicted
In this painting , the artist illustrates a woman lost in her thoughts, contemplating the urban landscape from a balcony. The soft hues and play of light on her face express a bittersweet melancholy, while revealing the nuances of the female spirit in the 19th century. This canvas , although figurative, transcends the simple portrait to become a statement on autonomy and contemplation.
Historical context
Created in 1879, this splendid painting is part of the excitement of the Impressionist movement. Mary Cassatt , an American artist based in Paris, captures here the intimacy of daily life, enveloping the scene in a gentle Parisian atmosphere. Today, this canvas is located at the prestigious Art Institute of Chicago , where it continues to inspire visitors.
Place in the artist's career
This canvas represents a turning point in Cassatt's career, marking her transition from an observer to a visual narrator of female emotions. In parallel with other works such as "Woman with a Parasol" and "Mother and Child," it is possible to trace the evolution of her style, moving from vibrant landscapes to more intimate scenes, imbued with psychological depth.
Anecdote
Mary Cassatt once stated: "The beauty of the moment is nothing without the journey towards deep contemplation." It is undoubtedly this thought that guided her during the creation of her masterpiece , as she observed women and children during her walks in Paris. This fleeting moment, captured on the canvas , undoubtedly evokes a combination of serenity and warmth, reflecting her quest for artistic truth.