Mother Combing Sara-s Hair Mary Stevenson Cassatt (1844-1926)

The pastel drawing presents a domestic scene centered around an intimate moment between a woman and a young girl. Here we see the back of a womans head, dark hair pulled into a bun, as she attends to the child seated beside her. The composition is structured around this central relationship; the woman’s posture suggests focused attention on the task at hand – combing the girl’s long, blonde hair.
The girl occupies the right side of the frame and is rendered with considerable detail. Her expression appears contemplative, perhaps a mixture of patience and mild curiosity as she endures the grooming process. The artist has captured a sense of vulnerability in her gaze, directed slightly away from the viewer. She holds a small comb, seemingly participating in the action, though her involvement feels more symbolic than active.
The setting is ambiguous; it appears to be an interior space, possibly a parlor or sitting room, suggested by the upholstered furniture and the presence of what might be a decorative screen behind them. The color palette is muted, dominated by soft greens, yellows, and pinks, creating a gentle, almost hazy atmosphere. The application of pastel lends a tactile quality to the work, with visible strokes contributing to the overall impression of immediacy and intimacy.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of maternal care, childhood innocence, and domesticity. The woman’s averted face prevents any direct connection or emotional reading from her perspective; she is defined by her action rather than her personality. This deliberate omission invites speculation about her inner state – perhaps a quiet tenderness, or even a sense of melancholy. The girls presence evokes notions of dependence and the passage of time, as the simple act of combing hair becomes a symbol of nurturing and connection across generations. The composition’s focus on this private moment suggests an appreciation for the beauty found in everyday routines and familial bonds.