Little Girl with Cat 1888 - 1890

Berthe Morisot delicately etched this image of a young girl tenderly holding a cat, capturing a moment of quiet intimacy. The cat is a potent symbol, long associated with domesticity but also with independence and mystery. Across cultures, the cat appears in various guises—from the revered deities of ancient Egypt, like Bastet, goddess of protection, to the cunning feline figures in folklore. Even in religious painting, cats have found their niche, like in Leonardo da Vinci's "The Virgin of the Rocks," where their presence adds an air of enigmatic domesticity. The motif of the cat has undergone numerous transformations, mirroring shifts in human attitudes and beliefs. The symbolism of the cat taps into the subconscious, evoking deep-seated feelings of comfort, but also reminding us of the untamed aspects of nature. This image is more than a portrait; it’s a profound exploration of the bond between humans and animals, resonating with timeless themes of affection and enigma.