The meaning of The Fitting by Mary Cassatt

"The Fitting" by Mary Cassatt is a captivating and thought-provoking painting that depicts a moment in the life of a woman getting fitted for a dress. At first glance, the painting appears to be a simple portrayal of a mundane activity, but upon further examination, it reveals deeper layers of meaning and symbolism.In a straightforward analysis, "The Fitting" can be seen as a reflection of the everyday lives of women during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cassatt, known for her focus on the lives of women, skillfully captures the intimacy and vulnerability of her subject. The woman in the painting is not just being fitted for a dress; she is allowing herself to be seen and judged, quite literally, through the act of being measured and examined.The importance of this painting lies in its ability to convey the societal expectations imposed on women at the time. Women were expected to conform to certain standards of beauty and fashion, and this fitting can be interpreted as a literal representation of the pressures women faced to fit into societal norms. Cassatt's choice to depict this moment emphasizes the performative nature of femininity and sheds light on the ways in which women were objectified and scrutinized.However, when looking for unexpected interpretations of the painting, we can delve even deeper into the symbolism and meaning behind "The Fitting". One possible interpretation is that Cassatt may be commenting on the restrictive nature of gender roles and the desire for liberation from societal expectations.The interior of the room where the fitting takes place is impeccably decorated with floral wallpaper and elegant furniture. The lushness of these surroundings signifies the luxury and comfort associated with the lives of upper-class women during that time. Yet, contrasting with this opulent setting, the woman getting fitted appears contemplative and perhaps even unsettled. Her posture and distant gaze imply a yearning for something more than mere material possessions and the societal ideals thrust upon her.The mirror in the painting, strategically placed behind the woman, not only serves as a tool for the fitting process but also as a symbol of reflection and self-discovery. Through the mirror, we see a reflection of the woman's face, capturing a moment of introspection. This suggests that she is contemplating her own identity and searching for authenticity amidst the expectations placed upon her. The mirror becomes a metaphorical portal, offering the woman and viewers alike a glimpse into their own internal struggles with conformity and self-expression.Another element worth noting is the absence of any other figures in the painting. The woman is isolated, further emphasizing her individual experience and the personal journey she is undertaking. Without any outside influences or distractions, the focus is solely on her, encouraging viewers to consider their own subjective experiences and confront their own battles with societal pressures.In contrasting the straightforward analysis with the unexpected interpretation, we can appreciate the complexity and depth of "The Fitting". While the painting's overt meaning highlights the societal expectations imposed on women, the unexpected interpretation brings forth the desire for liberation and introspection that resonates even with today's audience.Mary Cassatt's "The Fitting," through its masterful composition and subtly nuanced symbolism, invites viewers to reflect on the constraints of gender roles, societal expectations, and the journey towards self-discovery and authentic self-expression. It serves as a reminder that, regardless of time or place, the human experience is filled with struggles and desires far beyond the superficial understanding of a fitting for a dress.