#08083 Theophile-Alexandre Steinlen

The drawing presents a sequence of actions involving a feline figure and a series of cylindrical objects. These objects, rendered in a simple, unshaded manner, appear to be barrels or similar containers. The central subject, the cat, is depicted in stark silhouette against a light background, emphasizing its movements across the composition.
Here we see the animal engaged in an apparent pursuit or playful interaction with the barrels. It leaps, climbs, and falls, creating a dynamic visual narrative that unfolds across the arrangement of forms. The repetition of the barrel motif establishes a rhythmic pattern, while the cat’s varied postures suggest a progression through different stages of action – from initial approach to eventual descent.
The absence of detail in both the background and the barrels contributes to a sense of abstraction. This simplification directs attention solely towards the feline figure and its interaction with the objects. The drawings stark contrast between light and dark creates a graphic quality, almost resembling a series of sequential frames from an animated film.
Subtly, the work might be interpreted as a commentary on persistence or futility. The cat’s repeated attempts to interact with the barrels, despite apparent setbacks, could symbolize a relentless pursuit of a goal that remains elusive. Alternatively, it may simply celebrate the playful nature of animals and their interactions with their environment. The drawings simplicity lends itself to multiple interpretations, allowing for a range of readings depending on the viewer’s perspective.