Cats 

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen created this drawing of cats, using charcoal, with expressive strokes that capture the animals in a moment of repose. The composition is a study in contrasts, with the dark cat at the top providing a solid mass against the lighter, more delicately rendered cat beneath. The artist uses line and shading to define form, yet the sketch remains open, suggesting movement and the soft texture of fur. These cats are intertwined, with outlines blurred through smudging; Steinlen captures their intimate connection and vulnerability. The drawing is not just a literal depiction of domestic animals; it invites us to consider the semiotic potential of cats as symbols. The image challenges the viewer to consider the artwork's formal properties – its lines, shades, and textures – and how they shape meaning, opening up avenues for ongoing dialogue and reinterpretations.