The only American to exhibit with the French impressionists, Mary Cassatt was born on this date in 1844. 
Impressionist Extraordinaire
The only American to exhibit with the French impressionists, Mary Cassatt was born on this date in 1844.
Cassatt became best known for her many paintings of mothers and children.
In this informal, introspective portrait, the simplicity of the sitter's pose and the background contrast with the bold, expressive strokes that enliven the embroidered veil. Mary Cassatt traveled to Seville, Spain, in 1872, lured by its picturesque scenery, low cost of living, and the opportunity to study Spanish masters such as Velázquez.
Source: Joann Moser. American Impressionism: Treasures from the Smithsonian American Art Museum (exhibition text, Smithsonian American Art Museum, 1999).
Pictured: Mary Cassatt, 1844 USA–1926 France, Spanish Dancer Wearing a Lace Mantilla, 1873, oil, 26 3/4 x 19 3/4 in., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Victoria Dreyfus.