Slapende kat 1864 - 1936

Jan van Essen created "Slapende kat" - Sleeping Cat - using graphite. Van Essen's formative years occurred during a time when artists were pushing back against academic traditions. This was a time when artists aimed to capture fleeting moments, turning to everyday life for inspiration. Here, we see a cat, captured in a moment of vulnerability. The composition invites us to consider our relationship with these animals. Traditionally cats have often been symbols of femininity, witchcraft and domesticity. In contrast, van Essen's choice to represent the cat in such a state of relaxation challenges these narratives. It emphasizes the intimacy and emotional connection between humans and animals. The vulnerability of the sleeping cat perhaps reflects a broader societal interest in the private and domestic sphere. The image becomes a poignant reminder of the shared experiences of rest, comfort, and companionship.