Mimi 1888 - 1934

This is Willem Adrianus Grondhout’s etching of his cat, Mimi. It’s a soft image, using only the barest of marks to give a sense of form. The magic here lies in the image's surface, alive with subtle textures. The network of tiny lines create a velvety depth. Look closely at the cat's fur; each stroke feels like a delicate caress. There’s a sense of the artist's hand, carefully and tenderly rendering the cat’s form. The cat's posture, curled up and relaxed, invites us into a world of quiet contemplation. The etching reminds me of the work of Félix Vallotton, who also had a talent for capturing intimate, domestic scenes. But while Vallotton often employed stark contrasts and bold lines, Grondhout's approach is more gentle and understated, resulting in a work that celebrates the simple beauty of everyday life.