Cat concert 1635 - 1675

Curator: This drawing, dating from around 1635 to 1675, is titled “Cat Concert” and is attributed to Jacques Dassonville. The print, rendered in delicate pencil work on toned paper, features a bustling scene of people playing instruments, eating, drinking. What strikes you immediately about this piece? Editor: My first impression is one of warmth and contained chaos. The image is dominated by horizontal lines and hatching that creates the illusion of movement within the confines of this rather boxy interior. What I find appealing is the cat; it looks like the only grounded creature, nestled calmly in its human’s lap amid the general hubbub. Curator: Absolutely. Look closely and you will observe there are around ten figures in the piece, maybe more! Each is caught in a distinct moment. The artist masterfully depicts this interior world where social dynamics intersect. You can feel that, given the body language, there are clearly delineated social roles being played out within what could be a tavern, or perhaps some similar space for social gathering. How do the recurring visual elements shape a potential narrative for you? Editor: The image is brimming with well-worn visual symbols related to gatherings of common people—song, alcohol, community... and also their less refined aspects—immodest displays of public behaviour that are not very far removed from base, or ‘animal’ instincts. Yet the ‘concert’ alluded to in the title seems to be more figurative; do you sense discord, tension? Curator: Certainly a cacophony. Note that figure towards the rear, standing and extending an arm; they are the vocal protagonist! The upraised arm suggests either emphatic encouragement, or a counterpoint of remonstrance! Perhaps they have cause for discontent, and are drawing our attention to injustices outside of this gathering. Editor: That interpretation would certainly invite questions regarding the place of public art in expressing counter narratives! Still, looking again, the inclusion of children alongside the figures adds layers of complexity—it hints at ideas about the transmission of cultural knowledge. Curator: Precisely, it’s in that subtle layering where the richness of the image emerges. The contrast, especially, between the exuberance of most adults in the group, set against the quiet composure of the seated children, is especially striking. The one facing us appears unperturbed; perhaps knowing that they may one day too be participating in the spectacle before them. Editor: On reflection, seeing this snapshot of domestic life offers valuable insight into social and communal bonds; despite my reading of discord. Thank you. Curator: A powerful visual statement, reflecting tensions between domestic life, individual expression, and communal life—one that still resonates today.