Sara with her dog 1901

Mary Cassatt captured this intimate scene, Sara with her dog, using pastel on paper. Note how the child clutches her small dog. This tender embrace mirrors countless depictions of mothers cradling infants, echoing ancient protective gestures. Think of the Madonna and Child images, where Mary’s embrace symbolizes safety, love, and the nurturing bond between mother and child. In Sara’s gesture, this iconography is transposed onto childhood. The dog is more than a pet; it's a symbol of innocence and a recipient of unconditional affection. These postures tap into our collective memory, resonating with deeply rooted emotional experiences. The vulnerability and purity of the child, combined with the loyal, comforting presence of the dog, create a tableau that speaks to our primal need for connection and affection. Through this portrayal, Cassatt subtly weaves a narrative of care and tenderness, illustrating how fundamental expressions of love transcend time.