The Fitting [recto]

Mary Cassatt

National Gallery of Art

The sketch displays the upper bodies of two women with another figure seated with their back toward the viewer in the foreground. The central woman is in a slightly turned position with one arm bent, her hand resting on her opposite shoulder, and delicately drawn facial features with closed eyes and a gentle expression. She has an updo with a side bun. The woman in the background, standing slightly behind and to the left, is also in a similar pose, facing away from the viewer, presenting only the back of her head and her profile. They are both dressed in loosely fitted garments and there are no visible jewelry or objects being held. The background is minimally detailed with faint abstract benches or walls suggested by light lines. The drawing appears unfinished with visible lines suggesting movement or position adjustments.