Sara with her dog Mary Stevenson Cassatt (1844-1926)

The pastel drawing presents a young girl seated in what appears to be a cushioned chair, accompanied by a small dog nestled within her lap. The composition is intimate and centered on the bond between child and animal. Here we see the girl wearing a wide-brimmed straw hat adorned with green ribbons, partially obscuring her face while framing it softly. Her expression is gentle, suggesting contentment or perhaps quiet amusement directed towards her canine companion.
The artist employed a loose, impressionistic technique; strokes are visible and colors blend subtly, creating a sense of immediacy and capturing the fleeting quality of light. The chair’s upholstery displays a vibrant red hue contrasted against the paler tones of the girls dress and the dog’s fur. This color contrast draws attention to the central figures while also adding visual depth.
The dog is rendered with similar looseness, its features indistinct but conveying a sense of warmth and affection. It leans into the girl, reinforcing their connection. The background is deliberately blurred, further emphasizing the subject matter and creating an atmosphere of tranquility.
Subtly, the drawing conveys themes of innocence, companionship, and domesticity. The straw hat suggests a leisurely summer day, evoking feelings of carefree joy. The presence of the dog underscores the importance of loyalty and unconditional love within familial relationships. The overall effect is one of tenderness and quiet observation, capturing a moment of simple happiness in a child’s life.