Liggende kat, op een kussen, naar links Possibly 1828

This drawing of a resting cat was made by Jean Bernard, likely in the late 18th or early 19th century, using graphite on paper. The choice of graphite is important here, as it allows for a remarkable range of tonal variation, from the softest grays of the cat's fur to the deep shadows beneath its body. Looking closely, you can see how Bernard used hatching and cross-hatching to build up the forms, giving the cat a palpable sense of volume and weight. The cushion, too, is rendered with careful attention to its plush texture, suggesting a comfortable domesticity. But this drawing also speaks to broader social and cultural shifts. The rise of the middle class in the 18th century brought with it a new interest in domestic life and the comforts of home. Animals, particularly cats, became increasingly popular as pets, and images of them proliferated in art and literature. In its humble way, this drawing reflects that cultural phenomenon. By focusing on the materiality of the drawing and its social context, we can appreciate its full meaning.