Mary Cassatt was an American impressionist who depicted the life of women, essentially the intimate bond between mother and child. In Europe, Cassatt's paintings were better received that in United States. She exhibited every year at the Paris Salon until 1877, when all her works were rejected. Distraught at her rejection, she turned to the Impressionists, who welcomed her with welcome arms. Deciding early in her career that marriage was not an option, Cassatt never married. As her career progressed, her critical reputation grew, and she was often considered, along with Degas, as the one of the best exhibitors at the Impressionist Salon. She was awarded the French Legion of Honor in 1906 and is known for superior draftsmanship in all the media, notably pastel.