Fan Design with Cats and Sunflowers 1880 - 1895

Henri-Charles Guérard created this fan design with cats and sunflowers using watercolor, gouache, and graphite. Guérard lived in Paris during a time of significant social and artistic change. He was associated with the avant-garde circles and the Symbolist movement. Here, the semi-circular fan is decorated with stylized cats holding sunflowers. The cats, rendered in a simplified, almost cartoonish manner, stand upright, resembling human figures. Each cat holds a sunflower, creating a repeating pattern that is both whimsical and decorative. During the late 19th century, there was an increased interest in Japonisme which explains the design of the fan and flat perspective. Guérard’s choice of cats as a central motif might be seen as a playful nod to the changing roles of women in society. Cats, often associated with independence and mystery, resonate with the emerging image of the modern woman. This artwork reflects the societal trends of the era, blending artistic innovation with subtle commentary on gender roles and cultural influences.