Cornelis Visscher, The Large Cat, 1657, Engraving on ivory paper, Gift of Horace S. Oakley, Art Institute of Chicago, Illinois
Title: The Large Cat, 1657
Artist: Cornelis Visscher (c. 1629-1658)
The Large Cat as portrayed by Cornelis Visscher, a graphic artist of the Dutch Golden Age, is a powerful animal, even when asleep. A feline mass of fur, covered in an energetic pattern of curves and swirls creating a sense of movement even when he is still. His eyes squeezed shut as if concentrating on his nap, trying to conserve his strength.
For he is not a domestic pet, used to leisure and comfort. He only knows an outdoor existence, along with the tiny mouse, who watches cautiously in the background. Hopefully, soon to take the opportunity to escape before his foe awakens again.
CCO Public Domain Designation
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