Patience 1955

"Patience" (1955) by Balthus is a painting that depicts a young woman with a cat in a domestic setting. The woman is leaning forward on a table with her back arched, her pose and expression suggest a sense of melancholy or boredom. The cat is lying on the floor, adding to the sense of stillness and tranquility. The muted colors and the soft lighting create a dreamlike atmosphere, typical of Balthus's work. The painting is often interpreted as an exploration of themes of youth, innocence, and the passage of time. It exemplifies Balthus's signature style, characterized by detailed realism and a focus on the psychological and emotional states of his subjects.