"The Letter" by Mary Cassatt. Looking at facial expression and pose, what do you think letter is about? Include details from painting to support your thinking.

Thank you.

What do you see? What do you think?

I see a woman sealing an envelope. She looks either very worried or sad. I'm asking the ?.....

I agree -- she looks worried or sad. Could she be sending a letter to a friend who is very sick or who has just lost a family member?

http://www.nga.gov/collection/gallery/cassatt/cassatt-46726.html

To analyze the painting "The Letter" by Mary Cassatt, we need to examine the facial expressions and pose of the subjects in the artwork. Here's how you can proceed to form your own interpretation:

1. Observe the facial expressions: Take note of the expressions on the faces of the figures in the painting. Look closely at their eyes, eyebrows, and mouths to gather clues about their emotions. In "The Letter," there are two main figures: a woman sitting on a chair and another woman standing next to her.

2. Analyze the pose: Pay attention to the body language and positioning of the figures. Consider the gestures and movements that might convey meaning. In this painting, the woman who is seated is looking attentively at the woman standing while holding an open letter in her hands. The standing woman seems to be offering the letter with a sense of anticipation.

3. Consider the environment: Assess the surroundings depicted in the artwork to gain further insight. Elements like the background, furniture, and lighting can add context to the interpretation. In "The Letter," the setting appears to be a well-furnished interior with a window partially visible in the background, suggesting that the scene takes place indoors.

4. Interpretation: Based on your observations, draw inferences about the content of the letter and the emotions of the figures. For instance, the seated woman's focused gaze and the standing woman's expectant expression might indicate that the letter carries important news or holds sentimental value. The body language could suggest a significant moment of exchange or communication between the two individuals.

By closely examining the facial expressions, pose, and details of the painting "The Letter" by Mary Cassatt, you can come up with your own interpretation of what the letter is about. Remember that art can be subjective, so your analysis may vary from others' interpretations.