Puss-in-Boots 

Scott Gustafson’s painting, "Puss-in-Boots," captures a lavish feast filled with symbols of wealth and status, echoing scenes from the Dutch Golden Age. Observe the lute player, a figure reminiscent of musical allegories found in Renaissance art, symbolizing harmony and refined pleasure. The cat, dressed in finery, is a remarkable motif, a visual echo of transformation. Think of ancient myths where animals embody human traits, acting as intermediaries between worlds. Over time, the image of the adorned animal has surfaced again and again, evolving into this cunning feline. It serves as a mirror, reflecting our own desires for social mobility. The story is ancient, yet its emotional core continues to resonate. Puss-in-Boots taps into our collective fascination with metamorphosis, illustrating how symbols can be vessels for deep-seated, almost subconscious, hopes and fears. It is a narrative that perpetually resurfaces.