Girl with a Cat 1882

Ivan Kramskoy, a Russian painter, created this unnamed portrait, now known as "Girl with a Cat," sometime in the late 19th century. The artwork depicts a young woman reclining, gazing off with an unfixed stare, as a grey tabby cat rests comfortably in her lap. Portraits during this era often carried the burden of representation, particularly for women. Kramskoy seems to question these formal conventions, choosing to focus on the psychological depth of his sitter rather than idealizing her. The woman's gaze avoids direct engagement; instead, the viewer is left to contemplate her inner world. The cat becomes a symbol of domesticity but also offers a sense of companionship. The painting could also be viewed through a feminist lens, considering the limited roles and expectations placed upon women during this time. Kramskoy offers a glimpse into a moment of respite, emphasizing the subject’s interior thoughts and emotional complexity.