Drie katten c. 1896

Willem de Zwart made this print of three cats, sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century in the Netherlands. At first glance, it might seem a simple image of domestic pets but consider the institutional context in which it was made. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a growing interest in animal studies as a legitimate subject within art academies. Artists like De Zwart began to focus on the everyday, capturing the likenesses of animals with a newfound sense of respect and attention. This shift reflected broader cultural changes, as society's relationship with animals evolved. The print creates meaning through its informal style, suggesting a break from traditional academic constraints. Through careful historical research into the curricula of art academies during this period, we can gain insights into the changing status of animal studies and its connection to broader societal values.