Portrait of Mme. Fontveille 1902

Mary Cassatt made this portrait of Mme. Fontveille using graphite on paper. The quick sketch demonstrates the immediate and intimate nature of drawing. The texture and weight of the graphite pencil on the paper are evident in the varying line thickness and shading, which adds a sense of depth to the portrait. The marks build up, defining the form of the sitter, from the feathery trim of her elaborate hat, to the drape of her gown. The swiftness of the marks indicates the immediacy of the process, and Cassatt's skill as a draughtswoman. The use of drawing as a primary medium reflects a shift towards directness, away from the labor-intensive methods of traditional painting, and challenging distinctions between high art and craft. Cassatt's approach reflects a modern sensibility, valuing the artist's hand and the process of creation as integral to the artwork's meaning.