Mary Cassatt Born May 22, 1844 in Allegheny, Pennsylvania.

She was raised in a family of a stockbroker. Her parents hoped that their daughter would choose an economic profession and were against Cassatt becoming an artist, but Mary herself aspired to paint.

In 1861, she entered the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Her parents considered this education useful for any girl, but Mary’s desire to seriously pursue art shocked them.

In 1867, Cassatt went to Paris with her mother. Mary began taking painting lessons from academic artists, studying the works of various masters. Her work “The Mandolinist” was selected for the Salon exhibition.

At the beginning of the Franco-Prussian War, Mary returned to the United States. At this time, she had to face difficulties on her creative path. It was very difficult to find models for her works and patrons for support. In addition, the family continued to oppose artistic pursuits.

In 1871, Cassatt returned to Europe. She visited art museums, improving her style. Cassatt worked mainly in the spirit of impressionism.

Until 1886, the artist was an active member of the impressionist movement, communicating with Berthe Morisot, Degas.

The 90s became a period of prosperity for Cassatt’s creativity. She created a series of color etchings inspired by Japanese motifs. Cassatt gained fame not only in Europe, but also in America.

After the death of her mother in 1895, the artist came to her homeland, but soon returned to France.

In 1910, Mary took a trip to Egypt, which struck the artist with its beauty.

Cassatt actively participated in public life, presenting her works at an exhibition in support of the movement for women’s suffrage.

Mary Cassatt died at the Château de Beaufresne on June 14, 1926.