Castillo, José del – Estudio de dibujo. Niños jugando con un gato o El taller del pintor Part 2 Prado Museum

The composition presents a scene within what appears to be an artists studio or workshop. Four figures populate the space: three young boys and a domestic cat. The setting is defined by architectural elements – a window draped with foliage on the left, a bust resting on a pedestal to the right, and a large drawing affixed to the wall behind the central figure.
The boy closest to the viewer is engaged in playful interaction with the cat, bending down to offer it something held in his hand. His attire suggests a degree of affluence – an elaborate jacket with decorative trim and breeches. The second boy sits on a simple wooden chair, absorbed in sketching or drawing upon a sheet laid across a table. He wears a more modest outfit, indicative perhaps of a student or apprentice status. A third boy stands near him, his posture suggesting a mixture of curiosity and restlessness; he is dressed similarly to the first boy, but with a darker hat and pink breeches.
The large drawing on the wall depicts a classical head, likely a portrait study or a reproduction of an antique sculpture. Its presence underscores the artist’s interest in academic tradition and the pursuit of idealized forms. The bust positioned near the right edge further reinforces this connection to classical art.
Light plays a significant role in shaping the scenes atmosphere. It enters from the window on the left, illuminating the boys and casting shadows that define their forms and create depth within the room. The subdued palette – dominated by earth tones and punctuated by touches of color in the boys’ clothing – contributes to a sense of intimacy and quiet observation.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of childhood innocence, artistic training, and the transmission of cultural knowledge. The interaction between the children and the cat introduces an element of spontaneity and carefree joy into the otherwise structured environment of the studio. The presence of the drawing and bust suggests a formal education in art, while the boys’ playful engagement hints at the importance of imagination and observation in the creative process. It is possible to interpret this as a commentary on the balance between discipline and freedom within an artistic apprenticeship.