The Favorite Cat 1838 - 1848

This lithograph, "The Favorite Cat," was made by Nathaniel Currier, a partner at the printmaking firm Currier & Ives. Lithography is a printmaking process that relies on the contrast between oily and water-based substances. The image is drawn on a flat stone or metal plate, treated to hold ink in the design areas and repel it elsewhere, then transferred to paper. It's an inherently reproducible medium, which explains Currier and Ives's massive output. This print is hand-colored, giving it a warmth and charm that appealed to a wide audience. It’s easy to see why these images were popular. They were relatively inexpensive, and offered a glimpse into contemporary life. This particular print speaks to the growing popularity of pets in the 19th century, and also reflects the democratization of art that was made possible by mass production. Next time you see a Currier & Ives print, remember that it's not just a pretty picture. It's a testament to the power of printmaking and a window into the values and tastes of a bygone era.