Little girl with cap Mary Stevenson Cassatt (1844-1926)

Here we observe a portrait of a young girl, rendered in charcoal on paper. The composition is straightforward: the subject is positioned centrally and occupies nearly the entire frame. She appears seated, though the chair itself is only partially depicted, fading into the background with loose, gestural marks.
The artist’s focus lies primarily on capturing the essence of the child rather than meticulous detail. Lines are energetic and expressive, creating a sense of immediacy and movement. The face, while not precisely rendered, conveys a quiet intensity; her gaze is directed forward, seemingly unconcerned with the viewers presence. A large, somewhat floppy cap dominates the upper portion of the image, its folds suggested through rapid, overlapping strokes that contribute to the overall feeling of spontaneity.
The girl’s dress, similarly treated with loose lines, appears simple and perhaps slightly oversized for her frame. Her hands are clasped in front of her, a gesture that could be interpreted as either modesty or a slight apprehension. The background is indistinct, lacking any specific features beyond the suggestion of a chair back, which serves to isolate the figure and direct attention towards her.
The tonal range is limited, relying on variations in charcoal density to create form and volume. This restricted palette contributes to a sense of intimacy and restraint. Theres an underlying vulnerability conveyed through the child’s posture and expression; she seems poised between innocence and awareness. The sketch feels less like a formal portrait and more like a fleeting impression – a moment captured with sensitivity and a keen eye for character. It suggests a study, perhaps preliminary to a larger work, or simply a record of an encounter.