Slapende poes 1617 - 1681

Cornelis Saftleven created this etching, "Slapende poes", sometime in the 17th century. The eye is immediately drawn to the curled form of the sleeping cat, its body rendered with remarkable detail through a dense network of etched lines. These lines vary in thickness and direction, creating a play of light and shadow that gives the cat's fur a tangible texture. Saftleven's technique goes beyond mere representation; the carefully arranged lines create a sense of volume and depth. The cat's posture, curled into itself, suggests vulnerability and peace, while the precision of the etching lends a sense of dignity to the animal. The composition is simple, yet effective. The empty space above the cat emphasizes its form, making it the focal point of the piece. The contrast between the detailed rendering of the cat and the bare background invites us to contemplate the relationship between figure and ground, presence and absence. This etching shows how close observation and technical skill can transform the mundane into something profound, revealing beauty in the simplest of forms.