Seated Boy Holding a Cat (recto) c. 1874 - 1880

François Bonvin’s “Seated Boy Holding a Cat” is a charcoal drawing on paper depicting a young boy seated on the floor, clutching a small cat in his arms. The boy is dressed in simple clothing, and the scene is set in a dimly lit room. The artwork is a prime example of Realism, a movement that sought to portray everyday life in a truthful and objective manner, emphasizing honest observation and capturing the reality of working-class life. Bonvin was known for his masterful use of charcoal, which allowed him to capture the subtle nuances of light and shadow in his works. The drawing’s dark, muted palette contributes to the work's sense of realism and atmosphere. The subject matter of the drawing, a simple scene of everyday life, reflects Bonvin’s interest in depicting the lives of ordinary people.