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Mary Cassatt's painting "Autumn, Portrait of Lydia Cassatt" from 1880 is a poignant visual portrayal of her sister Lydia and a significant example of Cassatt's skill in capturing intimate, familial moments. The painting is an oil on canvas that beautifully marries the Impressionist emphasis on light and color with Cassatt's own nuanced interpretation of her subject.

The painting depicts Lydia seated outdoors, presumably in an autumnal setting, as suggested by the painting's title. Lydia is elegantly dressed in contemporary fashion, with a hat that shades her face, cast in delicate shadows that exhibit Cassatt's careful observation of light. The palette is composed of warm earth tones and shades of gold, echoing the seasonal theme and adding a serene, harmonious quality to the composition. Lydia’s posture is composed and her expression contemplative, reflecting an air of quiet reflection.

Cassatt’s broad and confident brushwork captures the textural variety of the scene, from the roughness of the ground to the delicate sheen of Lydia's attire. The background suggests an impressionistic approach, with less defined forms that allow the focus to remain on Lydia's figure. This painting is exemplary of Cassatt's gift for rendering intimate and personal moments with both sensitivity and technical skill.

Regarding the painting's current location, "Autumn, Portrait of Lydia Cassatt" is housed in the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum boasts an extensive collection of Cassatt's works, tracing her development and various artistic phases.

Mary Cassatt (1844-1926) was one of the few prominent female artists associated with the Impressionist movement in late 19th-century Paris. An American expatriate, she gained recognition for her portrayals of women and children, subtly challenging societal norms of the time. Cassatt's work is characterized by its loose, yet deliberate brushstrokes and her innovative use of color and light to enhance the emotional depth of her subjects.

"Autumn, Portrait of Lydia Cassatt," created during the early 1880s, marks a period when Cassatt was solidifying her signature style. This phase in her career is noted for its focus on family members, particularly her sister Lydia, who appeared frequently in her works. These portraits are celebrated not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for providing insight into the close bond between the sisters and the broader themes of womanhood and familial affection.

An interesting detail about this painting is its subtle incorporation of the influence of Japanese prints, which Cassatt admired and which can be seen in her simplified shapes and compositions, as well as her use of flat planes of color.

In summary, "Autumn, Portrait of Lydia Cassatt" is not just a testament to Mary Cassatt's technical prowess and innovative spirit, but also a deeply personal rendition of her relationship with her sister. It stands as a key piece within her oeuvre, emblematic of her contributions to the Impressionist movement and her unique voice in the art world.