The Barefooted Child c. 1896 - 1897

"The Barefooted Child" is a drypoint etching by American Impressionist Mary Cassatt, created between 1896 and 1897. The artwork depicts a woman holding a child in her lap, with a soft, muted color palette, highlighting the intimate connection between mother and child. The print is known for its delicate lines and subtle shading, which creates a sense of tenderness and warmth. Cassatt's focus on motherhood and domestic scenes made her a prominent figure in the Impressionist movement, capturing everyday moments with a refined and empathetic eye. This etching, currently held by the Minneapolis Institute of Art, showcases Cassatt's mastery of drypoint and her ability to convey emotional depth through simple composition and soft, expressive lines.